The MS Bike Tour 2008 (formerly the MS150) will take place on the weekend of September 13 - 14. The event will be held again in New Bern, NC. We've been asked to provide communications support for thousands of riders (more than 2000 are anticipated) who will ride on 30, 75 and 100 mile courses each day. All are raising money to support the Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Bruce Arnold N8UTY from New Bern is coordinating hams for this event.
Please drop him an email at brucen8uty@gmail.com and place MS BIKE TOUR in the subject line. Please copy me (kd4isc@arrl.net) so that I can keep track of the local hams participating. Let Bruce know of any particular radio jobs you are interested in (SAG vehicle, rest stop, shadow) as well as 2 meter and/or 440 radio equipment you have. Also let him know if you have any first aid / CPR certifications. There is a particular interest in recruiting hams with motorcycles.
This year, volunteers must undergo a simple background check (Name, address, driver's license info. NO Social Security Number). Bruce or I will email you a form when you sign up. Forms must be returned to the MS office by August 15.
There will be a brief training session for the Raleigh area hams prior to the tour. This training will insure we are knowledgeable in our job assignments and are familiar with the Tour's crisis management plan. We'll get a consensus on a date and meeting time as people sign up.
General information about the bike tour can be found at: http://bikenct.nationalmssociety.org
Hotel accommodations are tight. Check out http://www.visitnewbern.com/accommodations.htm for a list of hotels. Don't trust the online reservation systems as rooms have been blocked out for MS Bike Tour participants and all appear full. Most actually are. Havelock may be your best alternate location. Call hotels directly and mention you're with the event (this will give you access to any available rooms blocked out for the MS Bike Tour as well as any special rates). Camping is available at the park located near the convention center.
Let me know if you have any additional questions.
Dick Orander
kd4isc