October is Walk to School Month! The Missouri Safe Routes to School Network invites all schools and communities to participate in International Walk to School Day on Wednesday, October 6th, 2010, Walk to School Week October 4-8, and Walk to School Month the entire month of October.
A Walk to School event at your local school is a lot of fun and gets a lot of kids walking and bicycling. A Walk to School event can be started by a parent, a teacher, a PTA, a school principal or administrator, or even a student.
Walking to school is a great way for kids to get some healthy exercise and have fun at the same time. What's more, families who walk to school save on gas, as well as reducing congestion and air pollution around school.
To make it easy to organize an event, we made a checklist and various resources available for download below.
Please consider joining 3,000 other schools in the United States (3,000,000 children worldwide) by participating in this program.
Here are all the materials you need to plan a Walk to School event in your community:
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This recent research from the University of Buffalo seems to confirm what many of us have noticed about outdoor exercise--it not only improves your general fitness and burns calories, but it seems to have a long-lasting relaxing and calming effect. Researchers believe this effect has long-lasting health outcomes: A simple morning walk to school could reduce stress reactivity in children during the school day, curbing increases in heart rate and blood pressure that can lead to cardiovascular disease later in life, according to a new University at Buffalo study. UB researchers report in the August 2010 issue of Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise that children who took a simulated walk to school later experienced smaller elevations in systolic blood pressure, heart rate and perceived stress while taking a short exam than children who had gotten a simulated ride to school. Cardiovascular reactivity -- including changes in heart rate and blood pressure due to stress -- is associated with the beginnings of cardiovascular disease in children, and atherosclerosis -- the dangerous build-up of cholesterol, calcium, fat and other substances in artery walls -- in adults.
This one aspect of the Nature Deficit Disorder, a term coined by author (and Missouri native) Richard Louv.
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This is part of a series, "What has MoBikeFed done for you in 2010?" Read the remaining articles here. This time of year many are asking--what have you been doing? What have the Federation and the Foundation been doing? We've put together a multi-part report. Here is part one--about the activities of the Missouri Foundation for Bicycling and Walking so far this year: Missouri Foundation for
Bicycling and Walking: Recent Activities Summary
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April 2010 Missouri Safe Routes to
School Network The
Foundation is the lead organization and organizer of the Missouri Safe Routes
to School Network. The Network, funded
by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the Centers for Disease Control with
matching grants from the Missouri Foundation for Health, the Incarnate Word
Foundation, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Region VII
Office of Minority Health, brings together over 75 Missouri agencies,
organizations, and key individuals to work towards more and safer bicycling and
walking to school. Active
members of the Network include
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 The KC Star covered the first walking school bus program in Kansas: Someone cut a ribbon, a stilt walker rallied the crowd and tiny feet powered up the first walking school bus in Kansas.
The program at Pawnee Elementary School in Overland Park, part of a national effort to encourage exercise and curb obesity, involves groups of students walking to and from school each day escorted by adult volunteer "bus drivers." . . .
In 1969, almost half of all students walked to school, and only 5 percent suffered from childhood obesity.
Last year, just 16 percent walked — and childhood obesity was three times higher than 40 years ago. . . .
At Pawnee Elementary, 80 percent of students live within a 15-minute walk. But so many parents drive their children to and from school that traffic congestion, vehicle exhaust and parking problems build up, said Overland Park Council member Donna Owens, who was on a walking bus Monday.
Council member Terry Happer Scheier, also on a bus, said Overland Park officials hope to get the program into other schools and would like to see it spread far wider.
On the Missouri side of the state line, a handful of schools have such bus programs, and more are considering them, said Sharon Mohler, a parent who helped start one at St. Peter’s School four years ago.
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 A recent discussion with Missouri Senator Claire McCaskill revolved around rural and small-town Missouri. Do Missourians who live outside the major metropolitan areas support better bicycling and walking? Do they need better bicycling and walking facilities?This document provides some concrete answers and research data to inform our discussion of these questions.
This document is also available in printable PDF format.
Bicycling, Walking, Health, and Obesity in Rural Communities in Missouri
State and federal highways in rural communities discourage walking and bicycling, leading to serious public health consequences
Summary: Because of scarce resources in smaller towns, bicycling and walking facilities are typically poor. State and federal roads often serve as commercial and city centers, carrying the highest amount of traffic, yet have the lowest accommodation for bicycling and walking. Because of the poor walking and bicycling facilities and lack of connectivity, people in small towns and rural areas walk and bicycle less than average This has serious consequences for public health, physical fitness, and obesity rates in rural parts of Missouri. - Rural residents experience higher rates of obesity and overweight than people living in urban areas, even after correcting for age, education, income level, and other factors.1
- Rural children are more likely to be overweight or obese than urban children and are less likely to participate in physical activity. Rural children in the Midwest are less physically active than any other region of the U.S.2
- The popular image of active rural lifestyle is no longer accurate. Rural
residents tend to be less physically active than urban residents.3
- The built environment in small towns is far more likely to lack proper facilities for bicycling and walking, including sidewalks, crosswalks, bicycle accommodations, and trails. In this situation, exercise as a part of daily activity and outdoor exercise to go places is much more difficult. This has a measurable impact in reducing resident level of fitness, increasing obesity, and impacting community health.4
- Even in rural and small-town Missouri, the vast majority of the population lives or works in areas where bicycle, pedestrian, and transit programs are capable of making a significant impact. 70% of Missourians live in cities or towns; an additional 15% live in the immediate area of a city or town.5 Making rural towns and their immediate surroundings walkable and bicycleable is a problem that can be solved.
- Increasing the amount of walking and bicycling has a dramatic effect on increasing healthy life expectancy and reducing health care costs.6
- Increasing the amount of walking and bicycling facilities increases the amount of bicycling and walking. More facilities and more complete bicycle/pedestrian networks mean more bicycling and walking; fewer, less connected facilities lead to less bicycling and walking.7, 8, 9
- State and federal roads are the biggest part of the problem. Local neighborhood streets in rural towns are usually low-traffic and quite friendly for walking and bicycling. The main streets--usually state or federal highways--are the biggest problem. These highways--which carry the heaviest, fastest traffic-- almost always lack sidewalks, bicycle lanes, crosswalks, and pedestrian signals. These "big bad roads" typically divide small towns right down the middle.
- State and federal roads in small towns are usually the town's commercial center. To make bicycling and walking truly viable transportation modes, we need to provide access to destinations.10 The most appealing destinations in most small towns are typically on or near main highways--just the place where bicycle and pedestrian access is lowest.
- MoDOT usually expects local funding of sidewalks, bicycle lanes and other bicycle/pedestrian accommodations on MoDOT roads. This puts small towns at a disadvantage because of their limited budgets.
Conclusion: Small rural towns have less walking and bicycling than larger cities; impact on health and fitness is serious; lack of bicycling and walking accommodation on state and federal highways through these rural towns is among the largest contributors to the problem. Federal standards and guidelines that provide funding for roads and highways through rural towns but do not require proper bicycle and pedestrian accommodations on these roads are a major cause to this problem.
References
1 "Obesity and Physical Activity in Rural America," by Patterson, Moore, Probst & Shinogle,
Journal of Rural Health, Spring 2004, pp. 151-159
2 "Overweight and Physical Inactivity among Rural Children Aged 10-17: A National and State
Portrait," South Carolina Rural Health Research Center,
http://rhr.sph.sc.edu/report/SCRHRC_KF_ObesityChartbook.pdf
3 "Obesity and Weight Control Frequently Asked Questions," Rural Assistance Center, http://www.raconline.org/info_guides/obesity/obesityfaq.php; Obesity and Physical Inactivity in Rural America, The Journal of Rural Health, Volume 20 Issue 2, Pages 151 - 159. 4 "Obesity and Weight Control Frequently Asked Questions, "Rural Assistance Center,
http://www.raconline.org/info_guides/obesity/obesityfaq.php
5 "Ten Things to Know about Urban Vs. Rural," Missouri Census Data Center,
http://mcdc2.missouri.edu/TenThings/urbanrural.shtml
6 "Urban-Rural Differences in Mobility and Mode Choice: Evidence from the 2001 NHTS," by John Pucher and John L. Renne, p. 14, http://www.theinsightworks.com/blog/UrbanRural.pdf 7 "Bridging the Gaps: How the Quality and Quantity of a Connected Bikeway Network Correlates with Increasing Bicycle Use," by Mia Birk and Roger Geller, http://www.altaplanning.com/App_Content/files/Bridging_Gaps_TRB_2005.pdf 8 "Obesity and the Built Environment," by K. Booth, M. Pinkston, and W. Poston, Journal of the
American Dietetic Association, Volume 105, Issue 5, Pages 110-117.
9 "Community Design and Physical Activity: What Do We Know? – and what DON’T we know?" Susan Handy, University of California Davis, http://www.des.ucdavis.edu/faculty/handy/Handy_NIEHS_revised.pdf 10 "What Constitutes an Obesogenic Environment in Rural Communities?" by Tegan K. Boehmer, Sarah L. Lovegreen, Debra Haire-Joshu, and Ross C. Brown, American Journal of Health Promotion, Volume 20, Issue 6 (July 2
006), p 411-421, http://jessica.slu.edu/~ebph/Documents/Boehmer_ruralEnvironsObesity_AJHP_2006.pdf.
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A recent lawsuit over the injury of a bicyclist in a Columbia intersection brought the issue of traffic signal timings to the fore. The bicyclist's lawyer argued that a period of "all red" lights at the intersection might have prevented the collision. The court ruled that the city was not required to program the all-red signals. But, argues Columbia Mayor Darwin Hindman, it is still an idea worth pursuing: Hindman, an avid cyclist, has been fighting to improve Columbia’s streets and intersections throughout his tenure in office. His daughter was injured while riding her bike at the intersection of Providence and Stewart roads in 2003. Though Nov. 3 was not the first time he has proposed such a plan for all-red delays, the personal injury lawsuit put the issue back in the spotlight.
“I have proposed it before, but it kind of gets lost,” he said. “The lawsuit raises the awareness of the issue by having a case where it was argued that somebody might not have been hurt had you had the delay.”
While pedestrian countdown displays have been added to many intersections in Columbia, MoDOT took down the displays at the intersection of College and Rollins in the fall of 2006 — a year after the accident. Although there is a pedestrian walkway over College between Ashland and Rollins, the intersection is still busy on work days. MoDOT sees some practical difficulties in implementing the policy: Campbell, the MoDOT intermediate traffic studies specialist, said MoDOT likes to keeps its traffic signals consistent across the entire state “so drivers know what to expect from one intersection to another.” And most of MoDOT’s signals do not have the delay.
The decision to use the all-red delay at a particular intersection is based on several factors, he said.
“What we do is measure the intersection and take into account the speeds, and we use an equation that has different factors it takes into account," he said. "Really what changes the clearance time from intersection to intersection is mostly dependent on the speeds of the cars and size of the intersection.” . . .
MoDOT’s policy on the state-wide consistency could pose a problem to the mayor’s plan.
“To change our signals only in Columbia would place those signals out of compliance with that policy,” Campbell said. “Before MoDOT would do that, we would need a compelling reason to rethink the way they are currently timed.” . . .
The mayor thinks the plan would have a universally positive effect on Columbia’s streets.
“Bicycles are the most efficient form of human movement there is,” he said. “It doesn’t pollute, it gives you exercise, it relieves congestions and it is cheap. I think the bicycles, the pedestrians and cars will be better off if you have that four-way delay.” Read the complete article in the Columbia Missourian.One wonders whether MoDOT's policy even considers any factors beyond motorized traffic. Surely it is reasonable to program a traffic signal differently in a city with high pedestrian traffic vs in a rural location?
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The Missouri Bicycle Federation sent information to all candidates for office in Missouri this year, and invited each candidate to provide a statement of their position on bicycling and walking issues.
The statements from Missouri Governor candidates are below.Candidates are Kenny C. Hulshof (R), Jeremiah W "(Jay)" Nixon (D), Andrew W. Finkenstadt (L), and Gregory E. Thompson (I). Jay Nixon has responded with this statement: The beauty of Missouri can best be seen along the hundreds of miles of trails that cross our state. Trails add to our quality of life in Missouri and are a valuable resource for recreation and healthy exercise. I’m proud to have been a supporter of the Katy Trail since its beginning, and I continue to support trails and safe streets for walking and bicycling in our communities. The other candidates have not yet responded with a statement. Candidate contact information: * Kenny C. Hulshof (R) - info@kenny08.com, http://hulshof.org
* Jeremiah W "(Jay)" Nixon (D) - http://www.jaynixon.com* Andrew W. Finkenstadt (L) - ? * Gregory E. Thompson (I) - ? Please note that this is not an endorsement of any particular candidate or party--MoBikeFed is simply passing along verbatim the information that each candidate has provided to us. This information must, of course, be considered in context together with other available information about the candidates to make a complete, informed voting decision.
Your support makes MoBikeFed's work with our candidates and elected officials possible. Please consider joining, renewing, or donating today.
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The Missouri Bicycle Federation sent information to all candidates for office in Missouri this year, and invited each candidate to provide a statement of their position on bicycling and walking issues.
The statements from Missouri House candidates are below.
Please note that this is not an endorsement of any particular candidate or party--MoBikeFed is simply passing along verbatim the information that each candidate has provided to us. This information must, of course, be considered in context together with other available information about the candidates to make a complete, informed voting decision.Missouri House District 4* Mike Thomson (R) - thomson4rep@earthlink.net http://www.mikethomson.org/* Richard R. Oswald (D) - roswald@rpt.coop http://www.RichardROswald.comMike Thomson has responded with this statement: Bicycling is more that just a great sport. It is a relaxing way to stay
fit and a good mode of transportation for those short trips around town. I
would encourage the use of bicycles.
Mike Thomson
Mike.Thomson@house.mo.gov Richard R. Oswald has responded with this statement: I enjoy bicycling and walking myself, and bicycling obviously conserves
energy as well as being enjoyable exercise.
Count me in.
Richard R. Oswald
660.787.0222 mobile
660.744.2513 home
roswald@rpt.coop Missouri House District 59* Jeanette Mott Oxford (D) - jeanette.oxford@house.mo.gov, http://www.jmo4rep.com* Michael J. Peters, Jr. (L) - ? Jeanette Mott Oxford has responded with this statement: Thank you for offering to pass on a message to your members in my
district.
I am indeed anxious to make my district and the entire state a place where
walking and biking are safe and frequently utilized. Since I am an
overweight person who struggles to lose weight and occasionally gets going
in the right direction, at least temporarily, I know the benefits of
regular exercise.
I have enjoyed biking and walking and encourage urban planning that
maximizes opportunities for citizens to do both.
I appreciate the web links that you have provided so that I can learn more
about how to be an advocate for walkers and bikers. I look forward to
working with you in the 2009 Legislative Session.
JMO
Jeanette Mott Oxford
State Representative - 59th MO House District
314-771-8882 (home); 314-775-8940 (cell)
2910 Lemp, St. Louis, MO 63118
www.jmo4rep.com Missouri House District 60* Jamilah Nasheed (D) - Jamilah.Nasheed@house.mo.govMs. Nasheed has responded with this statement: The Missouri Bicycle Federation has my full support. I look
forward to working with you to improve the environment for
bicycling and walking in Missouri. Together, we will work to
increase the number of walking and bicycling trails and bicycle
routes.
Sincerely,
Jamilah Nasheed
State Representative
District 60
Jamilah.Nasheed@house.mo.gov
Web page: http://www.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills081/member/mem060.htm
Ms. Nasheed is running unopposed in this election. Missouri House District 64
* Rachel Storch (D) - rachel.storch@house.mo.gov Rachel Storch has responded with this statement:
I strongly support creating an environment that embraces cyclists
across the state of Missouri!
Rachel Storch
rachel.storch@house.mo.gov
Ms. Storch is running unopposed in this election. Missouri House District 83* Jake Zimmerman (D) - Jake.Zimmerman@house.mo.govZimmerman has responded with this statement: I'm not much of a cyclist, but I regularly walk from 4-10 miles a day for
pleasure and exercise. So as you can imagine, I'm pretty sensitive to the
importance of livable spaces with room for cyclists and pedestrians. (I
sure notice the difference between areas with good sidewalks and those
without them, especially at night!)
Improving our infrastructure to help get more people outdoors and moving
under their own power is good for our communities, good for our public
health, and - ultimately - good for economic development, too. I look
forward to working with members of the Bicycle Federation and other
interested parties to improve Missouri's record in this area.
All the best,
Jake Zimmerman
Missouri State Representative
District 83
Jake.Zimmerman@house.mo.gov
http://www.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills081/member/mem083.htm
Mr. Zimmerman is running unopposed in this race. Missouri House District 87* John J. Diehl, Jr. (R) - ? * Mark Zoole (D) - mark@markzoole.com, http://www.markzoole.comMark Zoole has responded with this statement: I am Mark Zoole, Democratic candidate for the Missouri House of
Representatives in the 87th Circuit (the St. Louis County area including
Brentwood, Ladue, Warson Woods, Frontenac, and Rock Hill).
I ride a Fuji touring bike, and my wife, Jen, prefers her hybrid. We often
take weekend bike trips throughout Missouri, Iowa south-central Illinois,
doing usually no more than fifty miles or so in a day depending on how many
bakeries we find along the way.
A few years ago, we took a week-long bike trip through Wisconsin where I
did my first century.
Cycling is important to me and I would enthusiastically support it and work
closely with the Missouri Fed as a member of the Missouri House.
Mark Zoole
1200 So. Big Bend Blvd.
St. Louis, MO 63117
(314) 647-1200
zoole@sbcglobal.net
Missouri House District 89* Timothy W. Jones (R) - tim@timwjones.org, http://www.timwjones.org/* George D. "Boots" Weber (D) - geoboots@aol.com, http://georgedweber.comTim Jones has responded with this statement: Thank you for contacting me with the message and request.
In response I am stating that I do very much look forward to working with
bicyclists and pedestrians in my district about issues of concern to them.
As an avid runner myself, a sport that I have enjoyed for over twenty
years, I know how important and vital it is to provide for safety and
security for all individuals who use our public roadways, including
pedestrians, runners, joggers and bicyclists.
Thank you.
Tim Jones
State Representative-89th District
tjones@dosterguin.com
Missouri House District 91* Randy Jotte (R) - randy@randyjotte.com, http://www.randyjotte.com/* Jeanne Kirkton (D) - jkirkton@earthlink.net, http://www.jeannekirkton.comRandy Jotte has responded with this statement: Thanks for your inquiry. I believe bicycling and hiking are great avenues
of recreation and provide both mental and physica
l health.
I have frequented Grant's trail with my wife and two children, ages 9 and
11. I believe trails for hiking and bicycling are a true public asset and
have supportd such programs in Webster Groves as a member of our city
council. I intend to do the same as a member of your general assembly.
The 91st House District includes all of Glendale, Oakland, and Shrewsbury
and most of Webster Groves.
Thank you.
Randy Jotte
Republican Candidate, House District 91
Jeanne Kirkton has responded with this statement: I am the Democratic candidate for state representative in H-91, which
includes Glendale, Oakland, Shrewsbury and most of Webster Groves.
Your issues are my issues. I have been a long time member of Trail Net and
Rails to Trails. Bike trails are an important topic to me personally and
as a Webster Groves City Councilmember. We work closely with Great Rivers
Greenway on the bicycle/pedestrian trails that are planned to run through
our city.
I am a huge proponent of pedestrian-friendly cities and support the
Complete Streets initiative. As a nurse, I understand the importance of
getting people out of their cars and on their feet. It's a win-win for
everyone in terms of personal health, a cleaner environment and decreasing
reliance on fossil fuels.
Thank you for contacting me. You may count on me as an ally.
Sincerely,
Jeanne Kirkton
Missouri House District 92* Sue Allen (R) - sue@electsueallen.com, http://electsueallen.com/* Ronnie Herman (D) - http://www.electronnieherman.com* Donald R. Griffin (CON) - decentguy1@juno.comSue Allen has responded with this statement: I am supportive of the concepts presented in your message . . . As a Physical Therapist I am committed to lifestyle activities and sports which enhance health through exercise. I also believe in municipalities providing public areas to make it convenient for every citizen to get out and ride or walk.
I look forward to talking to you in Jefferson City.
Sue Allen
sue@electsueallen.com The other candidates have not yet responded with a message. Missouri House District 95* Mike Leara (R) - mleara@gmail.com, www.mikeleara.com/* Alice Geary Sgroi (D) - aandpsgroi@yahoo.com, alicegearysgroi.com/ Alice Geary Sgroi has responded with this statement: I am delighted to support bicycling, running, and walking. As a former
bicycle rider who hopes to return to the activity, I enjoy cycling as well
as walking.
I consider these activities not only as recreation, but they can also help
reduce the use of fossil fuels and relieve traffic congestion. This is
beneficial for decreasing the strain on oil supplies (with potential
effects on prices) and their pollution which is harmful to the environment,
can speed up global warming, and is injurious to health (directly from lung
disease, not to mention obesity and other effects of a sedentary life
style.)
I do most certainly look forward to working with bicyclists and pedestrians
about issues of concern to them, whether about safety or an increase in
bicycle- and walking-friendly routes.
Alice Geary Sgroi
Candidate House District 95
aandpsgroi@yahoo.com
The other candidate, Mike Leara, has not yet responded with a statement. Missouri House District 110* Belinda Harris (D) - Belinda.Harris@house.mo.govMs. Harris has responded with this statement: My adult children recently bought me a new, old-style bicycle. I love it. I
never was the fan of hand breaks and my enjoyment was for pleasure and
exercise, not speed so the bike from my past was what I wanted.
I go riding with my granddaughters, an eight year old and a six year old.
The three year old is using training wheels and the one year old is looking
for a seat on my bike!
Bicycling is the best exercise and gives me an opportunity to socialize
with my granddaughters.
State Representative Belinda Harris
District 110
Belinda.Harris@house.mo.gov
http://www.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills081/member/mem110.htm
Ms. Harris is running unopposed in this election. Missouri House District 113* Mark J. Bruns (R) - 573.635.9903, Mark.Bruns@house.mo.gov, http://house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills081/member/mem113.htm* Al Mueller (D) - 573-634-9121, allanmueller@hotmail.com, http://almueller.org/Mark Bruns has responded with this statement: I support initiatives such as bicycling and walking for the obvious health
reasons, in addition to the fact they are excellent transportation
alternatives.
I would welcome the opportunity to discuss these and any other issues with
my constituency.
Mark Bruns
District 113
Mark.Bruns@house.mo.gov
Al Mueller has responded with this statement: I have always supported ideas that encourage the use of bicycles for
recerational and transportation needs. I was previously a State Rep. and
in 1976 had an amendment adopted to the St. Louis BiState sales tax that
would have require a modest percentage of the collections to be used for
bike paths in the St. Louis metropolitian area. The amendment died in a
conference committee.
I believe we need to encourage the use of bicycles as an alternative to the
vehicles in the cities across Missouri. I look forward to working with the
federation to meet that goal.
Al Mueller
allanmueller@hotmail.com
Missouri House District 123* Chris Molendorp (R) - chris@chrismolendorp.org, http://www.chrismolendorp.org* Juan I. Alonzo (D) - http://www.juanalonzo.comChris Molendorp has responded with this statement: Thank you for your email. I appreciate your interest in my campaign.
I do indeed look forward to working with you on issues of concern to
pedestrians and bicyclists.
As a former member of the Raymore, MO Park Board and the Raymore, MO City
Council, I am familiar with the concept of "complete streets". While often
a municipal issue, MODOT needs to be aware of the needs of everyone who
uses the roads they design. Not just motorists.
I'm also walking a lot; like many Americans I'm battling obesity. I've
lost over 30 pounds this year as a result of walking. My wife Julie and I
have often had the same feeling most of your members have had: "that car
didn't see me!" Many collector and arterial streets simply don't have
sidewalks.
I understand your organization's push to bring awareness to this issue.
In addition, I'm hopeful the KATY Trail will connect someday to Pleasant
Hill (Cass County) just east of my district. This will be a great asset
for the pedestrians and bicyclists in this area.
Thanks so much for your interest in my race. Your members could log onto
www.chrismolendorp.org to learn more.
Warmest Wishes,
Chris Molendorp
Republican Nominee, 123rd District
chris@chrismolendorp.org
Juan Alonzo has responded with this statement: Mr. Hugh,
Thank you for the opportunity.
Having served in the Marine Corps for 20 years, I have been a consta
nt runner all over the world. I must tell you that the most dangerous place to run is Missouri. Cars are always hugging the edge of the road which in most cases means that you take to the ditch!
I will work with, support, sponser and other wise help improve the ability of our citizens to bike, hike, walk, and run in our District and across the stare.
As Mayor of Rraymore I have always supported our trail system program. Every street reconstruction project has included discussions about making the streets friendly to non motor vehicle traffic.
I am in favor of the complete street, concept. I would support the continuation of the Tour of Missouri.
thank you for your efforts via the Missouri Bicycle Federation!
Juan Alonzo
816-813-4054
Missouri House District 126* Edgar Emery (R) - Ed.Emery@house.mo.gov http://www.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills081/member/mem126.htm* Linda Marie Crane (D) - lindamariecrane126@live.com www.lmcranemostaterep126.com/Ed Emery has responded with this statement: Although I never biked competitively I have biked many miles for
transportation, exercise, and pleasure. Since moving to rural Missouri, my
bikes have not really fit the terrain. I am not sure what public policies
may hinder your efforts to promote biking, but it would be a pleasure to
hear your ideas and concerns.
Sincerely,
Ed Emery
Linda Marie Crane responded with this statement: Great! I did not know this organization existed, but you sound great and
have my suppport; I teach in Springfield, Central High, and got to see
some of the Tour of Missouri this year and last....
My next door neighbor, on our dirt road way back in the boonies home is
Rick Mayer, who works for Greenways out of Greene Co...the bike and walking
trail made from the old railroad - I drive along it every day, as I go to
work.
I think biking is great, I think walking is great, whether I gain office
this time or not, you have my support; Please put me on your mailing
list..thanks,
Linda Crane
lindamariecrane126@live.com
Missouri House District 127Candidate: Thomas Flanigan (R) Flanigan has responded with this statement: As a member of the Carthage, Mo City Council I supported and voted for
improvements to the Carthage portion of the Ruby Jack Trail.
I look forward to working with you and your organization on issues we can
agree on.
Sincerely,
Tom Flanigan
Missouri House of Representatives
Representative-Elect
District 127
PO Box 1034
Carthage, Mo 64836
www.flanigan08.com
Mr. Flanigan is running unopposed in the District 127 race. Missouri House District 141* Jay Wasson (R) - Jay.Wasson@house.mo.gov, http://www.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills081/member/mem141.htm* Ron Shawgo (D) - ron@ronshawgo.com, http://www.ronshawgo.comRon Shawgo has responded with this statement: Thank you for your interest in my candidacy.
Of course I support this federation! I used to ride but have had to resort
to the walking trails now with two new knees.
Since I have been canvassing this whole district I have also noticed a lack
of sidewalks in many of the subdivisions, new as well as older, and this
district has no such thing as bike lanes on any of the roads, however poor
lighting needs to be addressed first before bikers are able to ride safely.
Walking trails are becoming more abundant as communities begin to
concentrate on family health, but I think we still need more people
involved in the out doors........
Ron Shawgo
ron@ronshawgo.com
The other candidate, Jay Wasson, has not yet responded with a statement.
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The Missouri Bicycle Federation sent information to all candidates for office in Missouri this year, and invited each candidate to provide a statement of their position on bicycling and walking issues.
The statements from Missouri House candidates are below.
Please note that this is not an endorsement of any particular candidate or party--MoBikeFed is simply passing along verbatim the information that each candidate has provided to us. This information must, of course, be considered in context together with other available information about the candidates to make a complete, informed voting decision. Missouri House District 4* Mike Thomson (R) - thomson4rep@earthlink.net http://www.mikethomson.org/* Richard R. Oswald (D) - roswald@rpt.coop http://www.RichardROswald.comMike Thomson has responded with this statement: Bicycling is more that just a great sport. It is a relaxing way to stay
fit and a good mode of transportation for those short trips around town. I
would encourage the use of bicycles.
Mike Thomson
Mike.Thomson@house.mo.gov Richard R. Oswald has responded with this statement: I enjoy bicycling and walking myself, and bicycling obviously conserves
energy as well as being enjoyable exercise.
Count me in.
Richard R. Oswald
660.787.0222 mobile
660.744.2513 home
roswald@rpt.coop Missouri House District 59* Jeanette Mott Oxford (D) - jeanette.oxford@house.mo.gov, http://www.jmo4rep.com* Michael J. Peters, Jr. (L) - ? Jeanette Mott Oxford has responded with this statement: Thank you for offering to pass on a message to your members in my
district.
I am indeed anxious to make my district and the entire state a place where
walking and biking are safe and frequently utilized. Since I am an
overweight person who struggles to lose weight and occasionally gets going
in the right direction, at least temporarily, I know the benefits of
regular exercise.
I have enjoyed biking and walking and encourage urban planning that
maximizes opportunities for citizens to do both.
I appreciate the web links that you have provided so that I can learn more
about how to be an advocate for walkers and bikers. I look forward to
working with you in the 2009 Legislative Session.
JMO
Jeanette Mott Oxford
State Representative - 59th MO House District
314-771-8882 (home); 314-775-8940 (cell)
2910 Lemp, St. Louis, MO 63118
www.jmo4rep.com Missouri House District 60* Jamilah Nasheed (D) - Jamilah.Nasheed@house.mo.govMs. Nasheed has responded with this statement: The Missouri Bicycle Federation has my full support. I look
forward to working with you to improve the environment for
bicycling and walking in Missouri. Together, we will work to
increase the number of walking and bicycling trails and bicycle
routes.
Sincerely,
Jamilah Nasheed
State Representative
District 60
Jamilah.Nasheed@house.mo.gov
Web page: http://www.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills081/member/mem060.htm
Ms. Nasheed is running unopposed in this election. Missouri House District 83* Jake Zimmerman (D) - Jake.Zimmerman@house.mo.govZimmerman has responded with this statement: I'm not much of a cyclist, but I regularly walk from 4-10 miles a day for
pleasure and exercise. So as you can imagine, I'm pretty sensitive to the
importance of livable spaces with room for cyclists and pedestrians. (I
sure notice the difference between areas with good sidewalks and those
without them, especially at night!)
Improving our infrastructure to help get more people outdoors and moving
under their own power is good for our communities, good for our public
health, and - ultimately - good for economic development, too. I look
forward to working with members of the Bicycle Federation and other
interested parties to improve Missouri's record in this area.
All the best,
Jake Zimmerman
Missouri State Representative
District 83
Jake.Zimmerman@house.mo.gov
http://www.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills081/member/mem083.htm
Mr. Zimmerman is running unopposed in this race. Missouri House District 87* John J. Diehl, Jr. (R) - ? * Mark Zoole (D) - mark@markzoole.com, http://www.markzoole.comMark Zoole has responded with this statement: I am Mark Zoole, Democratic candidate for the Missouri House of
Representatives in the 87th Circuit (the St. Louis County area including
Brentwood, Ladue, Warson Woods, Frontenac, and Rock Hill).
I ride a Fuji touring bike, and my wife, Jen, prefers her hybrid. We often
take weekend bike trips throughout Missouri, Iowa south-central Illinois,
doing usually no more than fifty miles or so in a day depending on how many
bakeries we find along the way.
A few years ago, we took a week-long bike trip through Wisconsin where I
did my first century.
Cycling is important to me and I would enthusiastically support it and work
closely with the Missouri Fed as a member of the Missouri House.
Mark Zoole
1200 So. Big Bend Blvd.
St. Louis, MO 63117
(314) 647-1200
zoole@sbcglobal.net
Missouri House District 89* Timothy W. Jones (R) - tim@timwjones.org, http://www.timwjones.org/* George D. "Boots" Weber (D) - geoboots@aol.com, http://georgedweber.comTim Jones has responded with this statement: Thank you for contacting me with the message and request.
In response I am stating that I do very much look forward to working with
bicyclists and pedestrians in my district about issues of concern to them.
As an avid runner myself, a sport that I have enjoyed for over twenty
years, I know how important and vital it is to provide for safety and
security for all individuals who use our public roadways, including
pedestrians, runners, joggers and bicyclists.
Thank you.
Tim Jones
State Representative-89th District
tjones@dosterguin.com
Missouri House District 91* Randy Jotte (R) - randy@randyjotte.com, http://www.randyjotte.com/* Jeanne Kirkton (D) - jkirkton@earthlink.net, http://www.jeannekirkton.comRandy Jotte has responded with this statement: Thanks for your inquiry. I believe bicycling and hiking are great avenues
of recreation and provide both mental and physical health.
I have frequented Grant's trail with my wife and two children, ages 9 and
11. I believe trails for hiking and bicycling are a true public asset and
have supportd such programs in Webster Groves as a member of our city
council. I intend to do the same as a member of your general assembly.
The 91st House District includes all of Glendale, Oakland, and Shrewsbury
and most of Webster Groves.
Thank you.
Randy Jotte
Republican Candidate, House District 91
Jeanne Kirkton has responded with this statement:
I am the Democratic candidate for state representative in H-91, which
includes Glendale, Oakland, Shrewsbury and most of Webster Groves.
Your issues are my issues. I have been a long time member of Trail Net and
Rails to Trails. Bike trails are an important topic to me personally and
as a Webster Groves City Councilmember. We work closely with Great Rivers
Greenway on the bicycle/pedestrian trails that are planned to run through
our city.
I am a huge proponent of pedestrian-friendly cities and support the
Complete Streets initiative. As a nurse, I understand the importance of
getting people out of their cars and on their feet. It's a win-win for
everyone in terms of personal health, a cleaner environment and decreasing
reliance on fossil fuels.
Thank you for contacting me. You may count on me as an ally.
Sincerely,
Jeanne Kirkton
Missouri House District 95
* Mike Leara (R) - mleara@gmail.com, www.mikeleara.com/
* Alice Geary Sgroi (D) - aandpsgroi@yahoo.com, alicegearysgroi.com/
Alice Geary Sgroi has responded with this statement:
I am delighted to support bicycling, running, and walking. As a former
bicycle rider who hopes to return to the activity, I enjoy cycling as well
as walking.
I consider these activities not only as recreation, but they can also help
reduce the use of fossil fuels and relieve traffic congestion. This is
beneficial for decreasing the strain on oil supplies (with potential
effects on prices) and their pollution which is harmful to the environment,
can speed up global warming, and is injurious to health (directly from lung
disease, not to mention obesity and other effects of a sedentary life
style.)
I do most certainly look forward to working with bicyclists and pedestrians
about issues of concern to them, whether about safety or an increase in
bicycle- and walking-friendly routes.
Alice Geary Sgroi
Candidate House District 95
aandpsgroi@yahoo.com
The other candidate, Mike Leara, has not yet responded with a
statement.
Missouri House District 110
* Belinda Harris (D) - Belinda.Harris@house.mo.gov
Ms. Harris has responded with this statement:
My adult children recently bought me a new, old-style bicycle. I love it. I
never was the fan of hand breaks and my enjoyment was for pleasure and
exercise, not speed so the bike from my past was what I wanted.
I go riding with my granddaughters, an eight year old and a six year old.
The three year old is using training wheels and the one year old is looking
for a seat on my bike!
Bicycling is the best exercise and gives me an opportunity to socialize
with my granddaughters.
State Representative Belinda Harris
District 110
Belinda.Harris@house.mo.gov
http://www.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills081/member/mem110.htm
Ms. Harris is running unopposed in this election.
Missouri House District 113
* Mark J. Bruns (R) - 573.635.9903, Mark.Bruns@house.mo.gov,
http://house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills081/member/mem113.htm
* Al Mueller (D) - 573-634-9121, allanmueller@hotmail.com,
http://almueller.org/
Mark Bruns has responded with this statement:
I support initiatives such as bicycling and walking for the obvious health
reasons, in addition to the fact they are excellent transportation
alternatives.
I would welcome the opportunity to discuss these and any other issues with
my constituency.
Mark Bruns
District 113
Mark.Bruns@house.mo.gov
Al Mueller has responded with this statement:
I have always supported ideas that encourage the use of bicycles for
recerational and transportation needs. I was previously a State Rep. and
in 1976 had an amendment adopted to the St. Louis BiState sales tax that
would have require a modest percentage of the collections to be used for
bike paths in the St. Louis metropolitian area. The amendment died in a
conference committee.
I believe we need to encourage the use of bicycles as an alternative to the
vehicles in the cities across Missouri. I look forward to working with the
federation to meet that goal.
Al Mueller
allanmueller@hotmail.com
Missouri House District 123
* Chris Molendorp (R) - chris@chrismolendorp.org, http://www.chrismolendorp.org
* Juan I. Alonzo (D) - http://www.juanalonzo.com
Chris Molendorp has responded with this statement:
Thank you for your email. I appreciate your interest in my campaign.
I do indeed look forward to working with you on issues of concern to
pedestrians and bicyclists.
As a former member of the Raymore, MO Park Board and the Raymore, MO City
Council, I am familiar with the concept of "complete streets". While often
a municipal issue, MODOT needs to be aware of the needs of everyone who
uses the roads they design. Not just motorists.
I'm also walking a lot; like many Americans I'm battling obesity. I've
lost over 30 pounds this year as a result of walking. My wife Julie and I
have often had the same feeling most of your members have had: "that car
didn't see me!" Many collector and arterial streets simply don't have
sidewalks.
I understand your organization's push to bring awareness to this issue.
In addition, I'm hopeful the KATY Trail will connect someday to Pleasant
Hill (Cass County) just east of my district. This will be a great asset
for the pedestrians and bicyclists in this area.
Thanks so much for your interest in my race. Your members could log onto
www.chrismolendorp.org to learn more.
Warmest Wishes,
Chris Molendorp
Republican Nominee, 123rd District
chris@chrismolendorp.org
Missouri House District 126
* Edgar Emery (R) - Ed.Emery@house.mo.gov http://www.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills081/member/mem126.htm
* Linda Marie Crane (D) -
lindamariecrane126@live.com www.lmcranemostaterep126.com/
Ed Emery has responded with this statement:
Although I never biked competitively I have biked many miles for
transportation, exercise, and pleasure. Since moving to rural Missouri, my
bikes have not really fit the terrain. I am not sure what public policies
may hinder your efforts to promote biking, but it would be a pleasure to
hear your ideas and concerns.
Sincerely,
Ed Emery
Linda Marie Crane responded with this statement:
Great! I did not know this organization existed, but you sound great and
have my suppport; I teach in Springfield, Central High, and got to see
some of the Tour of Missouri this year and last....
My next door neighbor, on our dirt road way back in the boonies home is
Rick Mayer, who works for Greenways out of Greene Co...the bike and walking
trail made from the old railroad - I drive along it every day, as I go to
work.
I think biking is great, I think walking is great, whether I gain office
this time or not, you have my support; Please put me on your mailing
list..thanks,
Linda Crane
lindamariecrane126@live.com
Missouri House District 127
Candidate: Thomas Flanigan (R)
Flanigan has responded with this statement:
As a member of the Carthage, Mo City Council I supported and voted for
improvements to the Carthage portion of the Ruby Jack Trail.
I look forward to working with you and your organization on issues we can
agree on.
Sincerely,
Tom Flanigan
Missouri House of Representatives
Representative-Elect
District 127
PO Box 1034
Carthage, Mo 64836
www.flanigan08.com
Mr. Flanigan is running unopposed in the District 127 race.
Missouri House District 141
* Jay Wasson (R) - Jay.Wasson@house.mo.gov,
http://www.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills081/member/mem141.htm
* Ron Shawgo (D) - ron@ronshawgo.com, http://www.ronshawgo.com
Ron Shawgo has responded with this statement:
Thank you for your interest in my candidacy.
Of course I support this federation! I used to ride but have had to resort
to the walking trails now with two new knees.
Since I have been canvassing this whole district I have also noticed a lack
of sidewalks in many of the subdivisions, new as well as older, and this
district has no such thing as bike lanes on any of the roads, however poor
lighting needs to be addressed first before bikers are able to ride safely.
Walking trails are becoming more abundant as communities begin to
concentrate on family health, but I think we still need more people
involved in the out doors........
Ron Shawgo
ron@ronshawgo.com
The other candidate, Jay Wasson, has not yet responded with a
statement.
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