MAMBA - Moscow Area Mountain Bike Association

Party Summary, Tibits, Trail Updates.....but wait!!!! There's More!!!
posted 06.26.08

Summary (technically it's more like a preview since it's at the beginning)
- Trail party last weekend (June 21st) was highly productive, but short-handed
- Follett's (Bruce!) dropped by and gave us a bunch of raffle prizes
- Next trail party is July 12th
- *All* the MAMBA loppers are currently missing
- Lower Tusk will be closed for the next month - other options exist
- Scott and Sherrie Metlen deserve a huge pat on the back/hug for clearing a TON of the trails this year
- Watch out for Mama and two baby bear cubs - South face of the mountain

MAMBA Newsletter
Act 3
Scene 3
Style - Auctioneer

Earrrrrrrly last Saturday morning a small group of MAMBAites gathered at Rosauers ONE person was there, then TWO, here come Two more making FOUR. FOUR people were there and they started talking. FOUR people were there and they all knew each other beforehand but had not seen one another for at least several days and we killed lots of time just talking about stuff while we were waiting. ONE of the people was getting worried that with a sore back already and only FOUR people to work it was going to be a very long and unrewarding day, but then out of the blue ONE person showed up making the total FIVE. FIVE people were there and the more recent acquisition was new to the group so there were lots of introductions but in the middle of the introductions TWO more people showed up making the total SEVEN. SEVEN people were at the truck talking and we decided to raffle off some stuff. ONE person showed up (Bruce from Follett's) and dropped off THREE free bike tune-ups for us to raffle off this season and he said "thanks, but I have to go open up the shop so I can't go with you" so we were back to SEVEN. Lorena Brown won a free bike tune-up which is a good thing because her hubby is a mechanical engineer but is probably too busy to keep all the bikes tidy like they could be (Ha! Just joking Chris!). Then ONE of us began to notice a little tension/envy so we decided to have ONE more drawing and Nick Fuller won a laminated MAMBA map which he will cherish and hand down for TWO generations. But Maike Holthuijzen really wanted a map so on the way home we pretended that she won a raffle and gave her a laminated MAMBA map as well. ONE Saturday morning with THREE prized given away and only SEVEN people there to work going once, twice....SOLD!

The crew of SEVEN worked like a pack of oxen and just as we were tiring TWO more people showed up and grabbed some tools. With NINE people on the crew we could not be stopped. We banged out 0.15 miles of gorgeous trail before calling it quits, which is about as far as a crew of 15 usually get.

While the crew of NINE was strong, the trail is long. We still have ONE 0.15 mile stretch left, followed by ONE 0.07 mile stretch. If we have a good turnout next trail party there is a slight chance we could finish Phase I of Gemini.The next MAMBA trail party will be on July 12th. No doubt you'll get ONE, TWO, or many more reminders before then.

ONE Friday morning we were sharpening all the MAMBA tools and loading up the truck and ONE of the people was looking for the loppers and found ZERO. The checkout sheet said there were TWO checked out, but since we normally have TEN or more we were trying to figure out there the other NINE were. TWO of us remembered where TWO more may be, but that still leaves SEVEN unaccounted for. This means that MAMBA really needs to buy some more loppers, but please consider bringing some back if you have them - at least for the trail parties.

Rob Dudley emailed me to let us know that they would be doing a little logging on the Lower Tusk. Lower Tusk is ONE trail that has another trail connect in to it (Cave Connector). For about ONE month they will be logging in the area near the little bridge and in order to avoid ONE or TWO people getting squashed by trees we should avoid that trail for the next several weeks. If you find you want to ride Cave Connector, too bad. You can now use Rock and a Hard Place, or Lickity Split to get from the Four Corners Parking area from the Dyer Meadow.

Lots of MAMBA members have been up on the mountain doing individual trail clearing projects. We haven't spend ONE MAMBA day doing trail clearing, and there was a lot of trees and brush over the trail this Spring. If you happen to run in to some of these folks, thank them for getting virtually all the MAMBA trails cleared this year.

I've gotten TWO reports that indicate that there is ONE mama black bear with at least ONE other little cub running around on the south side of the mountain. While the cubs may be cute, mama doesn't like it when bikers get too close. Keep your eyes out for them and give them some space.

Dan - ONE - Cordon
Jonathan - TWO - Lomber
Jim - THREE - LaFortune
Hey - FOUR - You-over-there

MAMBA Trail Party Reminder - June 21st
posted 06.19.08

MAMBA Newsletter
Act 3
Scene 2
Style - Psychologiest Office Visit

Hi, and welcome. Have a seat, whereever makes you most comfortable. I understand you are here because you want to improve some aspect of your life and I think that is just fantastic. I'm honored that you've asked me to be part of this process. Before we get started, I'd like to ask you some questions.

Do you know Misha Manucheri? She was present on the September 29th MAMBA trail party last year and because of her participation she has won the raffle for Salmon River Experience raft trip (donated by the always-gracious Chuck Boyd from SRE). Unfortunately, she has one small problem...I don't know how to contact her. If you have an idea of how to get in touch with her, please let me know asap.

I see from your chart that you're planning to go to the MAMBA trail party this Saturday, June 21st. Is that because of your love for outdoors? Or your desire to contribute to the construction of the new Gemini Trail? I would recommend a few things before you leave on this trip. You'll want some gloves and some shoes you don't mind getting dirty. You will also want to bring fluids to drink and a snack to eat during the day. And, of course, you'll want to meet at the Rosauers parking lot by 8:45am that morning so you can carpool to the trailhead.
You'll want to plan some other afternoon activity though, as they are usually finished by 2:00pm.

Tell me how you feel about personal safety. Would you be unhappy if a large tree were to fall on you? I only ask because Rob Dudley mentioned that they will be doing some logging just north of the East Twin starting next week and working part-time over the next month. This will probably impact the Tusks (upper and lower) trails. If possible you'll want to avoid that area until we have word that it's safe to ride over there. I know nothing upsets me more than people getting squished by trees. How do you feel about that?

Are you tired of riding Headwaters Loop? Are you looking for something different? Well, thanks to many MAMBA individuals, all of the trails between Headwaters and Nemesis are cleared of trees. And the late summer weather has melted the snow on most of the trails. Even Cave Trail is open. Over Easy is an unknown, but Blonde Jeans still has some snow on the east end by the Cedar Grove. Don't you think a ride up Cabin Trail and over to Paradise Point would really set your mind at ease? And think of the relaxation you would feel after riding Triple Crown, North Contour, and Cave Trail on your way back.

Well, it looks like out time is already up. It's not that I suddenly stopped caring about you, it is just that I'm scheduled to care about someone different in about 5 minutes, and I really need some Valium and some time to decompress after our visits. See you next week.

Abbreviated Newsletter
(also suitable for those with short attention spans)
- Misha Manucheri....how do I contact you?
- Trail party this Saturday starting at 8:45 am from Rosauers parking lot.
- Avoid the Tusks for the next few weeks.
- Enjoy the recently cleared trails.

Dan Cordon
Jonathan Lomber
Jim LaFortune

Weekly Ladies' Rides, Thursdays, 5:30pm
posted 06.11.08

Women's Mountain Bike Rides!

Who: All women welcome, all ability levels welcome.

What: A fun group ride on Moscow Mountain, the first several rides will be guided to give you an idea of the mountain and the many trails MAMBA (www.bikemoscow.org) has worked so diligently to create.

When: Every Thursday evening in June, July and August. 5:30pm-7:30ish (depending on our choice of trails)

Where: Meet at the Rosauer’s parking lot in Moscow under the display board at 5:30pm every Thursday. Bring a vehicle if you have one, or just bring your bike to carpool.

Why: Meet other women riders, learn Moscow Mountain trails, gain experience and have fun on awesome single track!

Contact: Aly Lamar, aly@pcei.org

ride on . . . .

Aly Lamar

MAMBA Food Party and SRE Raffle, June 6, 6pm
posted 06.03.08

MAMBA Newsletter
Act 3
Scene 1
Style - Nursery Rhyme

Early one morning, last Saturday,
twelve MAMBA members came out to play.
Now Matt Morra is everyone's bud
with 35 bucks good at Hyperspud.

Lorena Brown can be the new trail guide,
a laminated MAMBA map shows her where the trails hide.
With tools in the truck and a sky full of sun,
we drove towards the mountain for hard work and fun.

We hiked up the trail, McLeods cleared the duff,
while Pulaskis and Grub Hoes moved dirt and stuff.
The sun was hot, but the crew wouldn't fail.
Thank them for 1/4 mile of nicely groomed trail.

We're nearly complete with "Gemini stage one."
But there's still point-four miles to be done.
With one large crew, we can finish next time
On June 21st, join our fire line.

Now for the good food and drinks for your liver,
and the awesome raffle to float Salmon River.
It's the MAMBA Food Party, here's your invitation
June 6th, 6 pm, make no hesitation

If the weather is crummy, we'll do it inside
If the weather is nice, drive over, or ride
Shoshone St. is just past the new roundabout
611's the address - Google your route

We'll have some cold beverage, and a BBQ going
Here's a list of things you might want to bring
Plates and utensils, family and friends,
something to grill if our food supply ends

The raffle will happen promptly at seven
Some lucky chap will win rafting heaven
If you don't do trail builds, that's fine, we don't care
Come to the party 'cause we'll all be there.

Dan Cordon
Jonathan Lomber
Jim LaFortune

MAMBA Trail Party Saturday May 31
posted 05.30.08

MAMBA Newsletter
Act 2
Scene 3
Style - Used Car Salesman

I noticed you've been checking out the MAMBA Trail Party. Let me tell you a little about this baby. If I had to sum it up in a word - Dependable. You can count on this one for sure. This Saturday, May 31st, the MAMBA Trail Party is definitely going to happen. But I wouldn't feel right about myself if I didn't tell you that others have been looking at the MAMBA Trail Party as well. If you wait too long, you may miss out on this one. Sure, there will be other trail parties, but this one....it's over this weekend. And if you don't jump on it, someone else will.

You want to take it for a test drive? Sure thing. Hop in and we'll take a trip around the block. You have your Pulaskis here - there the ax/hoe looking tool. The McLeod's are over there to your left - looking like a very much like an industrial rake. In the back is the Wondertool - like a hedge trimmer on steroids! And under the hood, that's the chain saw - one of the basic necessities that drive this beast. But to really experience it, you need to show up at Rosauers on Saturday the 31st by 8:45 am. Look for a black and red truck with a bunch of tools in the back.

Now, before you sign on the purchase of this MAMBA Trail party, I need you to be aware of two other things. First...the undercoating. If you don't buy it, the whole thing may very well fall apart on your way home. But second, and most important, is the June 6th MAMBA Party. Don't get this confused with the MAMBA *Trail* Party. The June 6th MAMBA Party does not involve all the fancy-schmancy tools. June 6th just involves getting together with like-minded friends on a Friday evening to relax, eat some fresh grilled food, and maybe win something like a raft trip from Salmon River Experience. Everything you need to know about the June 6th MAMBA Party is in the packet inside the glove box. Oh, snookers!

It's not there! I'll send you a brand new one just as soon as I get one in. Then you'll know everything there is to know about the MAMBA Party on June 6th.

Dan Cordon
Jonathan Lomber
Jim LaFortune

MAMBA Trail Party Saturday May 31
posted 05.27.08

MAMBA Newsletter
Act 2
Scene 2
Style - Biblical Verses

Jim 4:56
Behold! An Angel did speak to me in a dream. And they spake to me saying "Hark! Cease building the large wooden boat from your previous vision. Instead, gather together your people on May the 31st (unless the Holy One doth give great rain or horrible storm that day). Pick up your tools, so that your spirits and hearts may be uplifted. Work the earth so that a gateway to the Heavens (I'm pretty sure they meant Four Corners) may be constructed."

Let us assemble at the Rosauers parking lot at 8:45am for a caravan to the Mountain. No tools/skill/experience required. Bring some rugged footwear, gloves, water, and something to snack upon. Manna may fall from the sky, but don't necessarily plan for it. John at Hyperspud hath generously donated a $35 gift certificate, which will be raffled off to the participants this Saturday. We always appreciate John's support of us, and hope that our appreciation is returned to them as well. A different lucky, but not *as* lucky, volunteer will also get one of the laminated 8.5 x 11 MAMBA trail maps - complete with the names and GPS traces of all the MAMBA maintained trails on the mountain.

Jonathan 1:14
Behold! Another angel (Aly Bean) did also speak to me via email. She said something like "Hark! While the men to toil with needless bickering and displays of masculinity, the women of MAMBA shall have great opportunity for Ladies Rides each week. The plan is to meet weekly at the Rosauers parking lot at 5:30 pm on Thursdays - starting June 5th. Let Aly know if you are interested, or if you are interested, but are not available Thursdays. There are many stories about these "Ladies Rides." Some rumors include pajama parties and pillow fights, but the more credible sources simply tell me that they are a blast, and I'm not invited w/o a gender change operation.

Daniel 6:97
Behold! A third, more masculine pair of angels did send a heavenly message to my inbox declaring the clearing of Asotin Creek Trail. Ike Andrews and Brian Johnson let it be known that the downed trees have been removed. They are also considering organizing a group ride at Asotin Creek some time. When the Spirit moves them to do so, I'm sure they will send us the word.

Johnny 5:3
Behold! The faux-phets (should sound a little like "prophets") Jim LaFortune, Jonathan Lomber, and I have planned more than one month in advance (it seemed like a good idea at the time). For this year, the proposed Trail Parties are:

• May 31, 2008
• June 21, 2008
• July 12, 2008
• August 2, 2008
• August 30, 2008

These are all Saturdays, and if there is horrible weather, but promising weather for Sunday we will consider postponing a day. If that happens, and email will be sent, and a messenger will be waiting at Rosauers to let anyone know. So far, I don't think we've had to do this, but it
*could* happen.

Chuck 15:10
Behold! A MAMBA Party (not "Trail Party" just "Party") is planned for the evening of Friday, June 6th. This will be a potluck gathering of sorts. Think of it as the end-of-last-year party that never happened, because that's exactly what it is. We'll have the raffle for the Salmon River Experience, some good food, and friendship. Location and time TBD. Hopefully I'll have that ironed out soon.

Geminia 8:34
Behold! As sure as the sun doth rise in the morning, so hath the snow melted from most of the mountain. However, the wind hath blown in great fury over the winter, and the trees of iniquity have fallen across many trails. If there are any volunteers who are comfortable with a chain saw, we would love to organize 1-2 small groups to head to a few key areas and saw/wondertool some of the trails in the next few weeks. Let us know if you're interested in leading/participating in a tiny-trail party.

Amen

Dan Cordon
Jonathan Lomber
Jim LaFortune

Gemini trail update
posted 05.13.08

Hello MAMBA-philiacs,

Last Saturday six bikers and two dogs cranked out another 1/4 mile or so of sweet, handcrafted singletrack. In fact, the first 1/ 1/2 mile segment of Gemini Trail might be ready to ride by late June/early July, if we get big turnouts for the next couple of trail construction parties. If you'd like to ride the piece we've built so far, pedal about 2/3 mile up Moscow Mt Road from the gate. Look for evidence of new trail building on the left—about 1/2 mile before Warnick Road splits off from Moscow Mt Road.

Call for MAMBA Volunteers

If there were such a thing as a MAMBA wish list, I'd include a couple items:

Wish #1) is for someone to brush out the second 1/3 of a mile of Gemini Trail before the next big trail party. Please contact Jim LaFortune or Dan Cordon if you are thinking of doing this (or just go for it and put the orange flags on the tread before you toss the branches, so the ground crew can follow the line).

Wish #2) is for a couple of folks to step up and offer to learn how to lead MAMBA trail parties once or twice a year, so that we'd have a wider pool of trained leaders. This would help stave off burnout amongst Dan, Jonathan, and Jim, who currently lead all the outings. Please let us know if you're interested. In addition to undying gratitude and adulation of the masses, you'll get a free one-year subscription to MAMBA's amazing new Web site with its detailed, downloadable trail maps, found at www.bikemoscow.org. Woo-Hoo!

In other Gemini Trail news, John Larkin won the Volunteer Incentive prize last Saturday, a fine mesh duffel bag donated by NRS. Sweetness. Thank-you, NRS! Next time out we'll be giving away another mesh bag and perhaps a $25 gift certificate from Paradise Creek Bikes too.

And from the "Put-It-On-Your-Calendar" Dept, here's a reminder of MAMBA's giganto-fantastic Gemini Trail Construction Fiesta on Saturday, May 31st! Details to follow, so don't touch that dial.

Current Trail Conditions

Headwaters, Southside Trail, Switchblade, Moose Marbles, and Hey Noose are open and cleared of fallen tree debris. You'll have to dismount for a half dozen or so bigger logs if you head out Southside and Switchblade, but it's easy to get around them. These bigger logs will require a chainsaw to remove, if anyone would like to saw them out. Regarding persistent snow, as of May 12, 2008 there are two patches of snow on Southside (each less than 100 yards long), none on Headwaters, none on Switchblade, almost none on Hey Noose, and one deep spot for about 100 yards on the lower part of Deep Vee (near Paradise Point).

Yours in singletrack lust,

Jim LaFortune

MAMBA Trail Party this Saturday May 10
posted 05.06.08

Hello MAMBAnauts,

Gemini Trail beckons the blades of our berm-building, bike-loving, bodacious, bombalicious trail builders. Or whatever...

What: trail party ON

When: Saturday, May 10, 2008

Where: meet at Rosauers on N Main St in Moscow at 8:45 AM for the volunteer prize drawing—a SWEET mesh duffle bag donated by NRS!

Who: everyone is welcome, especially graduating UI students who'd rather be productive than listen to 'inspirational' graduation speeches (just kidding). Seriously, no experience is necessary, on-the-job training, great benefits (um, sorry; no health care). You could even build singletrack with us till noon and still make it to the ceremony on time. Woo-hoo ;-)

What to bring: lunch, water, sturdy footwear and a desire to meet great folks who might share their favorite North Idaho ride with you later this summer...Marble Creek, anyone?

More info: Email Jim LaFortune

Rain date: in case of heavy rain Saturday, meet at the same time/location on Sunday

Trust me, Gemini Trail is the tail that's going to wag the dog, so be part of history and help build it!

I hope to see you Saturday,

Jim LaFortune

No Trail Party Saturday, May 3rd
posted 05.02.08

MAMBA Newsletter
Act 2
Scene 1
Style - Drill Sergeant

ALRIGHT YOU WORTHLESS PIECES OF SKIN.....YOU THINK YOU KNOW THE DRILL, BUT YOU DON'T KNOW *ANYTHING* BESIDES YOUR OWN BIRTHDAY. SOME OF YOU KNUCKLEHEADS CAN'T EVEN REMEMBER WHAT YOU ATE FOR BREAKFAST THIS MORNING. I ONCE HAD AN IGUANA THAT WAS SMARTER THAN THE WHOLE GROUP OF YOU PUT TOGETHER. BUT I DIGRESS....

THERE IS *NO* TRAIL PARTY THIS WEEKEND. TAKE THE WEEKEND OFF, VISIT YOUR FAMILY, PARTY LIKE ITS 1999. BECAUSE WHEN YOU GET BACK - I'M GOING TO WORK YOU SO HARD YOU'LL THINK YOU'VE BEEN HIT BY A MAC TRUCK. YOUR ARMS WILL BE SO TIRED IT WILL HURT TO PICK UP A FORK AND PUT FOOD IN YOUR MOUTH. AND MY LEGS WILL BE TIRED FROM CONTINUALLY KICKING YOU IN THE BUTT.

JUST SO YOU KNOW THAT I LOVE YOU, YOUR WEEKEND GETS TO LAST UNTIL MAY 31ST. BY THAT TIME, MANY OF THE TRAILS WILL HAVE THAWED AND BIKING SEASON WILL BE UPON US. BUT DON'T GET TOO COMFORTABLE, BECAUSE JIM - THE LASHER - LAFORTUNE MAY SEND OUT A MESSAGE FOR SOME MORE IMPROMPTU TRAIL PARTIES BETWEEN NOW AND THEN. NOW DROP AND GIVE ME ONE-HUNDRED!!!!

Dan - The Warden - Cordon
Jonathan - The Lopper - Lomber
Jim - Don't Think I Won't - LaFortune

MAMBA Newsletter - Call for Trail Party Leader
posted 04.30.08

MAMBA Newsletter
Act 1
Scene 3
Style - Enthusiastic Preacher
(I should probably install a lightning rod before sending this out)

CanIgetan AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA-MEN!! Today I'm feeling the power of MAMBA. Are you feeling the power of MAMBA?!!!! Have you let MAMBA in to your life?!!!!

On the holy day of May 3rd, MAMBA wants your help. MAMBA needs a leader to stand up and say "I'm your humble servant, ready to lead your army for a day." The three current leaders are not in the good graces of MAMBA, being unable to lead a trail party that day. If you feel up to the task (ie: you can fog up a cold mirror), then let us know asap so we can spread the word....the great word of MAMBA trail parties. If no champion can be found for this weekend, we will have to wail and gnash our teeth in sorrow. But never fear....there is another trail party planned for May 31st, so plan ahead and skip your other church outings that day :o)

The great MAMBA spirit has made it known to me that several of our congregation did not receive the last newsletter (European Football Announcer). The past newsletters are all on the "Announcements" page on our Web site (www.bikemoscow.org). If you did not get the last one, let me know and I'll double check that you are on the list - to be counted among the CHOOOOOOOSEN people. CanIgetan AAAAAMEN!!

Speaking of the Web site.....the new MAMBA site went live last Thursday. All the things you hold dear from the previous site are still present. What is new (passing the collection plate around) is a "member login" area. Those who have paid their annual membership dues (possible via either Paypal or check-in-the-mail) will be blessed with even greater access to trail information. The old trail descriptions are still on the site and free for all those who open their hearts (and Web browsers) to www.bikemoscow.org. However, those who have sacrificed their $15 will be granted access to enhanced descriptions - including trail ratings, elevation profiles, maps of the trail system, GPS files of most trails (three common formats), and nine great trail ride combo suggestions. (klang, kling, glang) The collection plate is already filling, blessed be all our new members! For a free demo, click the "Sample Trail" icon found near the "Join MAMBA" buttons around the site. The members area will continue to improve throughout the year with updated trail descriptions (turn-by-turn) for each route, and maybe even some video clips. Your membership dues help us keep the tools maintained and let us purchase materials for trail/bridge construction.

MAMBA wishes to thank Hugo Lecomte and the many sponsors of the Moscow Bike Prize Ride (Tri-State, Gritman Medical Center, Paradise Creek Bicycles, Moscow Bagel & Deli, Bucer's Coffeehouse Pub, North Idaho Athletic Club, and the Moscow Food CO-OP). Nearly 200 people showed up for the event—with all of the proceeds going to benefit the Latah Trail Foundation.

MAMBA also wished to recognize our Brother Todd Benson at NRS, who provided MAMBA a solution for our tool storage dilemma that could not be refused. Todd and the group at NRS are going to save MAMBA hundreds of dollars per year - so we owe them a huge thank you. They've asked for nothing in return, but we should make an attempt to return the favor.
Make sure visit at their store/warehouse on 2009 South Main in Moscow. They've got much more than rafting equipment, so check them out for summer apparel, Chaco sandals (my favorite), and plenty of other goodies.

And one last "thank you" goes out to our Brother Bruce Hoff at Follett's Mountain Sports. Bruce also offered a solution to our tool storage problem. Even though we didn't use it (yet), the offer was genuine. Whatever gear you can't find at NRS, be sure to stop in Follett's for the rest of your biking needs.

Choir...take us out with an uplifting hymn of "The Wheels on the Bike go Round and Round!"

Dan Cordon
Jonathan Lomber
Jim LaFortune

Last Minute Trail Party
posted 04.25.08

Hello MAMBA People of the World,

I'm going to spend a few hours constructing tread on Gemini Trail (near Moscow Mt Rd) on Saturday morning, April 26th. I know there is a lot of other stuff going on, but if you'd like to join me, please reply to this email or give me a call.

I'll probably depart from my house around 9am. We could even put a few tools in a BOB trailer and get a workout en route to/from the mountain. It is Earth Week, after all...

See you on the new singletrack,

Jim LaFortune

P.S. Thanks to Jason Aplanalp, who cut the fallen trees off Headwaters Trail last weekend. He reports that it will be a couple more weeks before enough snow melts off Headwaters to be rideable. Hang in there, singletrack-aholics!

Trail Party Report and Upcoming Events
posted 04.24.08

MAMBA Newsletter
Act 1
Scene 2
Style - European Football Announcer

April 19th, six sinister studs emerge from the locker room - John Larkin, Todd Benson, Martin Chilvers, David Blue, Jason Aplanalp, and Jim - The Lumberjack - LaFortune. With nothing but chainsaws and determination they make their way nearly 1 mile through the brush, dodging severe snow patches along the way. Certainly the question on every views mind.....did they complete the entire GOOOOOOOOOOAL?

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO. But this is a war, not a single battle. This fearsome team of six fought with the strength of ten. By the time the Gemini Trail is done, we'll need at least 100 people (acting with the strength of 139). For the sensational six who made the first trail party happen - we owe you a thank YOOOOOOOOOOOO!

Upcoming news:
Hugo Lecomte has done a fantastic job organizing the first annual Moscow Bike Prize Ride - taking place this Saturday, April 26th. All profits will benefit the Latah Trail Foundation. The event starts at 9:00am at the 1912 Center. Registration costs $10 (or free with a bike rental receipt from Paradise Creek). Show up with a bike and ride to five local stores where you will draw a card (regular playing card). Return to the 1912 Center by 11:00am for the score sheets to be tallied (poker scoring).

The better the hand, the bigger the prize! There are EIGHT bikes to be given away, along with other great prizes like MP3 players. But wait! Sneaking through the center.......across the high desert......what if there's SNOOOOOOOOOOOOOOW? Not a problem, the Moscow Bike Prize Ride is still a GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (Actually, the weather is supposed to be fantastic).

Also at this event, MAMBA will have a table set up that *hopefully* has the new Web site on display. Paying dues ($15/year) will get you access to the member area of the site, featuring new maps, GPS files, and elevation profiles. Payment will be accepted via credit card through Paypal (or possibly bribing the webmasters?). With the new maps, you should never have a question about where you want to GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You'll be in the KNOOOOOOOOOOW!

For those with moral objection to activities involving a) playing cards, b) riding bicycles at 9am Saturday mornings, or c) supporting the Latah Trail Foundation in an event where you may win big.....you will probably want to skip the Prize Ride. Instead, get involved with PCEI's 18th Annual Paradise Creek Stream Clean Up - also starting at 9am Saturday, April 26th. Meet at PCEI's new location at 1040 Rodeo Drive. Visit http://www.pcei.org/calendar.htm for more details. And bring some warm clothes because there's a good chance the creek is a little COOOOOOOOOOOOOOLD! Snow melts in the mountains, making the water COOOOOOOOOLD!

Upcoming Mamba Trail Parties:
We are so excited about the new Gemini Trail that we want to have two trail parties in May. The first will be the weekend of May 3rd, and the second will be the weekend of May 31st. I've been quite ill for a few weeks (not feeling well, for those who incorrectly translated this to mean that I'm "wicked sick, one bad Mo, and generally rockin' this Bee-oat"). Jim may/may not be available to lead the trail party on the 3rd, and I'm unsure if I'll be healthy enough by then. If someone is willing to serve as the champion for the 3rd, please let Jim, Jonathan, or I know. You'll probably want to go for a quick scouting run with Jim before then if you weren't at the last party. With good member support, by the end of the season we have a chance to meet our new trail GOOOOOOAAAAAAAAL! We won't have to ride to Four Corners on the ROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAAAD!

Dan Cordon
Jonathan Lomber
Jim LaFortune

Gemini Trail party reminder
posted 04.18.08

Spring on, trail lovers!

Despite the weather forecast, this is your official reminder that we plan to begin clearing brush on Gemini Trail this Saturday, April 19.

Meet at Rosauers at 8:45am.

We may still go out, even if it's a little wet, since we probably won't be working the dirt anyway. If the weather is questionable (eg; snow on the ground in town), call me (Jim) around 8 AM Saturday (home 882-9366, cell 208 301-0625) or just meet at Rosauers so we can decide together.

If the weather doesn't allow us to begin work on Gemini Trail on Saturday, then Sunday will be the rain date. I'll send an email Saturday PM if we'll be playing with chainsaws on Sunday.

Hoppy Trails,

Jim LaFortune

April MAMBA Script - Trail Party Saturday the 19th
posted 04.16.08

MAMBA Newsletter
Act 1
Scene 1
Style - Soap Opera

You: MAMBA....I haven't heard from you in such a long time. Have you lost your love for me?

MAMBA: Heavens no! I love you as I have always loved you....like the sea loves the wind...like grass loves nitrites, carbon dioxide, and just the right amount of water. I love you because I need you...I am not whole without you.

You: Ohhhhh, MAMBA......(kiss, kiss, pause)....I desire to show my love for you. How may I do it?

MAMBA: Funny you should ask. Despite the large snow pack still remaining, MAMBA's #1 lover - Jim - is going to lead a trail party to work on the new Gemini (Jim and I?) trail this Saturday, April 19th (with a rain/snow day alternative on Sunday). This new route will allow us to pedal from near the bottom of Moscow Mountain Road all the way to Four Corners. Because of the low elevation and southern exposure, you, me, and a bunch of my other MAMBA lovers can engage in the dirty activity of brush clearing this new trail.

You: MAMBA!!! I *love* it when you talk to me like that...tell me more!

MAMBA: All right then....Meet me, and the rest of my lovers at 8:45 AM on April 19th at the southeast corner of the Rosauers on North Main St. in Moscow. Bring a chainsaw if you own one, lunch, water, chocolate, more chocolate, sturdy footwear, work gloves, and that "special thing" you and I looked at last week, the name of which I dare not utter aloud.

You: Yes MAMBA! Yes MAMBA! I will do it! But just one more
question....*Why* must we doing this?

MAMBA: Because it must be done. Gemini will be as essential for access to the Four Corners area as Headwaters is to the west end of the mountain. I know how much you love the west end...but just you wait until you've had the middle. As they say: "Once you go middle, the west end seems little."

You: Before I agree to this, is there anything else I should know about?

MAMBA: Oh yes....there are three VERY important announcements you must hear:

• The new MAMBA Web site is scheduled to be launched soon....perhaps even on April 26th. My two code junkies have been slaving away all winter for this update so expect some major changes. As part of these changes, paying membership dues will be required to access the new trail information, but there is now an option to pay with a credit card through Paypal. The content isn't complete yet, but it will continually be updated throughout the season. I think you're really going to love this.
  
  
• There is also going to be a Moscow Bicycle Prize Ride to benefit the Latah Trail Foundation on April 26th. It begins at 9:00 am at the 1912 center, and runs until 11:00 am. There is a $10 registration fee, but there are also eight (8) bicycles being given away to registered participants!!! I will send out more details as the event gets closer.
  
  
• The MAMBA tool storage shed is going away (ie: MAMBA's #1 lover, Jonathan, is moving to a new house and the shed isn't coming with him) and we're looking for other options for tool storage. If you know anyone who can get us a good deal on a small rental storage unit, or someone with an unused shed....we're looking for a new home.

You: Ohhhh MAMBA...(kiss, kiss, embrace, light jazz music in the background, fade to darkness)

Dan Cordon
Jonathan Lomber
Jim LaFortune

Devil's Slide Bike Race, April 13, 2008
posted 02.19.08

MAMBA Cyclists,

If you haven't heard, the Twin Rivers Cyclists' Cross Country Mountain Bike Race, Devil's Slide, is on again this year! The race takes place in Hell's Gate State Park, Lewiston, Idaho. Each lap is about 6 miles, with 700 ft elevation change. The date is set for Sunday, April 13th, 2008 at 11:00 am. Mail entry forms must be received by Wednesday, April 10, 2008.

Follow the link provided here to the Twin Rivers Cyclists' Devil's Slide race for entry forms and more information.

Dan Cordon
Jonathan Lomber

Backcountry Film Festival and Fundraiser - Moscow Mountain Cedars
posted 01.22.08

MAMBrrrrrs,

While many of us are on a mountain bike hibernation, Mike Beiser has been putting together an outdoor film festival featuring seven great film by grassroots filmmakers. Mark Solomon will be opening the ceremony with comments about the Giant Ceder Grove. So walk/ride over to Hyperspud Sports or the UI Outdoor program and get your tickets! Below is a copy of the press release:

BACKCOUNTY FILM FESTIVAL AND FUNDRAISER
FOR MOSCOW MOUNTAIN CEDARS
JANUARY 24th

Moscow, Idaho - The U of I Outdoor Program is hosting the Winter Wildlands Alliance Backcountry Film Festival. The festival is Thursday, January 24th at 6:30 p.m. in the UI Borah Theatre. Tickets for the film festival will be $4 for UI students and $5 for everyone else. Tickets can be bought in advance at the U of I Outdoor Program office or Hyperspud Sports in downtown Moscow. The evening will be a fundraiser for protection and awareness of the Moscow Mountain Giant Cedar Grove.

The festival showcases inspirational and thought-provoking films from grassroots filmmakers that will inform you about backcountry and environmental issues as well as entertain you with exceptional skiing.
Local conservationist, Mark Solomon, will provide opening commentary to the evening on the Giant Cedar Grove.

WWA’s signature event promotes human-powered winter sports such as backcountry and Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, and winter hiking and camping, as well as to raise awareness of WWA’s work on issues affecting quiet winter enthusiasts and winter ecosystems.

The film program is a combination of short films and longer films. Topics range from climate change and its effects on winter recreation, to a story about a rafting and skiing expedition on the wild Alsek River in the Yukon produced by a UI alumnus Scott Rulander. Hybrid.Pedal, a film about a thousand-mile bike ride from Portland to Salt Lake to draw attention to endangered wildlands in the Western US, is the only non-winter film. It features work by Conservation Alliance grantees and their efforts to protect wild ecosystems including Winter Wildlands’ campaign to protect an area in Utah’s Logan Canyon for human-powered winter recreation.

Funds from this event will support WWA’s public lands and youth education programs as well as their national policy work to advocate for the responsible stewardship of pristine winter wildlands. Funds will also benefit the continued preservation and awareness of the Moscow Mountain Giant Cedar Grove. This wonderful area for human-powered winter travel is one of the last remaining cedar / tamarack habitat types in the world.

For more information, please contact Mike Beiser at the ASUI Outdoor Program at 885-6810.

Dan Cordon
Jonathan Lomber

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