colorado springs has posted the job description for the person who will replace judy miller.  there are some true gems in there.  among my favories are following:

• Logo Branding: Ensure that USA Cycling logo and link is present on all promoter & local association websites.

yes.  look for those phone calls soon.  however, if i may make a suggestion, try to schedule the calls for right around the time the team president is paying the $150 team registration fee and all their riders are paying at least $60 for their license fees.  This is the time when all cyclists are wondering what more we can possibly do to help usacycling.  it would make excellent strategic sense to hit up that clubs at that time for some necessary, but free, advertising.  compliance is virtually assured.

• Affinity Programs & USAC Benefits: Ensure that affinity partners and USAC benefits are marketed and visible on local association websites, at events, promoter meetings, etc..

ditto.  people, the word here is synergy.  this is not a new concept and it's disciples have been prolific in telling of its benefits.  when we do good things for the usac, well, it's just bound to be the case that something, though not clearly defined or enumerated, or detectable by any sort of normal auditing processes, will occur.  and that thing might be beneficial.  though it's possible that it might not, it simply flies in the face of our firm belief in mutual economic advantage.  we're all in this together people.  when the phone rings, pick it up and ask what you can do to help.

my favorite piece in this job description is near the end: Fun Rides (Non-Competitive)

• Research all fun (non-competitive) rides within assigned region that are not currently sanctioned by USA Cycling
• Market new non-competitive fun ride insurance rates to these fun ride promoters
• Increase number of fun rides sanctioned within region

oh yes.  i don't even know where to begin.  will we have take the sign in at hains point?  and with large and well respected regional cycling groups such as potomac pedalers and reston bike club getting sick and tired of the wacky hijinks of local racers hammering their rides, they have now mandated that all who participate must become members.  i don't know if usac got wind of this scheme but does anyone see this seriously gaining traction in this area?  trust me, i'm not just blowing smoke.  I tried last winter to set up a supported training ride.  we'd have coffee and juice and donut holes at the start.  we'd have a police car in front and a police car behind and we would hold a steady 20mph.  even with the food and drink and start facilities donated, the per rider cost was outrageous.  without someone making a ridiculously large and exceedingly poorly advised financial infusion, that idea will never get off the ground.  group rides are free form things.  i can't seriously imagine taking a job where i was expected to meet this goal.  can anyone think of a group ride that would be a suitable candidate?

-sg