PARADE STEPS OFF IN VAN WERT. Bicycle Shorts... Bill Gordon, GOBA Director. More on Van Wert... See article on p. 2 See June Newsletter

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1 Bicycle Shorts... Bill Gordon, GOBA Director GOBA-27: Bike and camp along with us and earn your Cycology Degree on a whirlwind week. Don t be late for your class. You, too, can graduate from GOBA U! Arrive early in Van Wert and study up for extra credit. (1) Getting fit for GOBA-27 is more enjoyable, now that the weather is breaking. For training tips & packing list: goba.com/about/waytogoba.htm. Prepare for this year's GOBA by riding into those beautiful spring headwinds! You'll enjoy the tour more if you can practice riding several days in a row. Then, you'll be able to relax on GOBA! (2) Reminder: if you have any specific dietary needs, please come prepared to carry your special food with you. While we do our best to prepare the food stop organizers, sometimes your individual needs may not be met. (3) Remember, you are responsible for your own equipment, including medical devices. GOBA is not able to provide electrical plug-ins and we advise you to look into battery-powered devices. Or... take advantage of the towns' home stays or other indoor options in order to have an electrical source. (4) Bring a lock and always lock your bike. Write down the bike model and serial number and keep it in your wallet. (5) As of this writing, the Ohio Travel Treasures motel/shuttle package is still available; call The OTT Tue. & Thurs. bus tours are still open. Don't wait! See March Newsletter for forms, or go to: goba.com/ott_trips (6) Showers: you can shower in camp in our shower trucks (for free) with warm water and long lines...or in the facilities with shorter lines and cooler water. (7) Know Your Rider Number: You need it for check-in in Van Wert. It was in your confirmation letter. Enjoy discounts on the tour with your GOBA wristband. (8) If you registered as a "Car Camper", mail the Car Camper confirmation form ASAP and no later than May 28. Can't find the form? Go to: goba.com/carcamper. Your pass & special maps will be in your packet in Van Wert. While we try to find convenient camping locations, you may be required to park across the street from the main GOBA camp or to camp away from your vehicle. (9) Cancellations/Refunds: Deadline is May 20, 2015, postmark date, by certified mail only. Refund fee is $49. No refunds after deadline. (10) Reminder: hotels are not included in the town's shuttle route. You need to make your own arrangements for transportation back and forth to the hotels. (11) Mail your Medical Profile form back to GOBA ASAP and no later than May 28. Be sure to first tear off & complete the "Permission to Treat" card; carry it with you on tour. Can't find yours? Go to: goba.com/medprofile (12) If you go to a medical facility for medical care during GOBA, you may need to tell them specifically to release basic information about you to GOBA. That way, we'll be able to call and find out when we can arrange transportation and other assistance for you. Our volunteers and staff are educated in the need to protect your privacy. (13) Feedback! Yes, we want to hear from you. Get your hard-copy feedback form from volunteers in Mansfield on the last day, near the luggage piles or at the Info Station. Or go to PARADE STEPS OFF IN VAN WERT This year's parade will take you on a 1-mile excursion through quiet neighborhoods in Van Wert. Parade line-up is at 5:45 pm and leaves the fairgrounds at 6:15 pm on June 20. The parade ends at the lovely downtown Fountain Park where the opening ceremony will be held. At about 7:00 pm the Van Wert County Foundation's Summer Music in the Park will present Blue Moon Swamp --- a tribute to John Fogerty and Creedence Clearwater Revival, music all will enjoy. In the event of rain, the event will be moved to the Niswonger Performing Art Center and GOBA participants will be transported by shuttle bus. A bike parade isn't a bike parade at GOBA without a Costume Contest! This year's theme --- "Cycology Degree from GOBA U" --- should encourage you to be very creative. Judges will mingle with contestants before the parade begins, in addition to viewing along the route. So be sure to get to the line-up early. The First United Methodist Church directly opposite Fountain Park will be providing a meal for interested bikers and there is a concession stand in the park manned by a local non-profit organization. The Van Wert Area CVB also sponsors a 50/50 drawing during the concert, so bring along a few extra dollars and perhaps you'll leave with a tidy sum of cash! More on Van Wert... See article on p. 2 See June Newsletter Special 27th GOBA... see p. 8! Watch for U P D A T E S facebook.com/gobatour goba.com (homepage) blasts: set your spam filter to accept from goba.com Great Ohio Bicycle Adventure Phone (614) FAX (614) goba.com gobainfo@goba.com facebook.com/gobatour An event of

2 The GOBA News, May, 2015, p Activities with Advance Reservations (This is an overview...see details elsewhere in this issue or March issue.) ACTIVITY CONTACT Pre-Tour Share a ride to Van Wert gobainfo@goba.com... or , ext. 1 (March, p. 2) Ship your bike to Van Wert, by reservation only (March, p. 1) All-Week Motel Package by Ohio Travel Treasures or ohiotraveltreasures.com/goba/ COP Towel Services by June 12 (this issue, p. 6) Amateur Radio Operators gobahams.org or n8suz@arrl.net (March, p. 5 & this issue) Sat., 20th Van Wert: Floor sleeping at fairgrounds first come, first serve. March, p. 1 Sun. Bluffton: Floor sleeping in GOBAville first come, first serve. March, p. 2 Bluffton Univ. dorm rooms Reserve by June 7. March, p. 4 Bluffton home stay kingsleym@bluffton.edu. this issue, p. 4 Mon./Tue. Defiance: Indoor Floor Sleeping in GOBAville first come, first serve. March, p. 2 Defiance College dorm rooms Reserve by June 5. March, p. 4 Tue./Thurs. 2 Optional Bus Trips by Ohio Travel Treasures HURRY... don't be left out! or ohiotraveltreasures.com/goba/ (Mar., pp. 6-7 or goba.com/ott_trips) Wed./Thurs. Bowling Green: Indoor Floor Sleeping in camp first come, first serve. March, p. 3 Bowling Green St. University dorm rooms Reserve by June 10. March, p. 4 Fri. Ottawa: Floor sleeping in GOBAville first come, first serve. March, p. 3 Ottawa: "The Studio" rhonda@walnutstreetcreative.com. this issue, p. 5 V A N W E R T 2015 Start & End Town Saturday, June 20 & Saturday, June 27 The bicycle parade to beautiful, historic, uptown VAN WERT lines up at 5:45 p.m., starts at 6:15 p.m., and the opening ceremonies kick off at 6:35 p.m. The Van Wert area continues to gear up for the 27th GOBA. The GOBA committee is in the process of finalizing plans for an exciting kick-off to this year's adventure. The Van Wert County Fairgrounds is where you'll call home. From there it's only a short bike or shuttle ride to all kinds of activities for all ages. So, once you get settled, enjoy some entertainment at the fairgrounds and map out your course for the rest of the day. What to See & Do on the Shuttle Route? You'll find there's lots to do in and around Van Wert. Shuttles start running to attractions, shopping, and dining around town at noon to give you ample time for exploring our beautiful city. One shuttle will be dedicated to taking those interested to the Camp Clay Aqua Park and Splash Pad. Camp Clay is one of the "hidden Jewels" of Van Wert. The fully staffed Aqua Park includes many one-of-a-kind activities including a water zip line, ferry raft to the island, inflatable Aqua "toys", paddle boats, canoes, playground, sandy beach, concession area, and so much more! Brand new to the Aqua Park in 2015 will be the 33,600 square foot Splash Pad for children and families to enjoy! Admission is $4 per person. Other shuttles will take you downtown and to Town Center Shopping Center. Downtown you can explore the June Art Exhibit and the Faces of Little Big Horn Exhibit at the Wassenberg Art Center; shop 2 large antique malls and other local retailers; view the historic Van Wert County Courthouse; the first county library in the United States; or eat at Balyeat's Coffee Shop, a 90-year-old Van Wert tradition. Don't leave without stopping by Truly D'vine Bread Company for scrumptious pastries and donuts. On the way to Town Center, have the shuttle drop you off at the Van Wert County Historical Museum, where there is much to see on its large campus. Would you rather venture out on your own? Be sure to stop by the Local Information booth. This is the place to find local maps, shuttle schedules, newspapers, and local Visitors Guides. There are plenty of spots on the shuttle routes that are well worth a side trip. Our volunteers will be glad to answer your questions or give you suggestions. Check the June Newsletter for updates. VAN WERT - DIRECTIONS The June Newsletter will contain driving directions to Van Wert and Van Wert County Fairgrounds, because it will be important for you to use the correct gate when entering the fairgrounds to avoid traffic tie-up. In the meantime, here are the GPS coordinates for the 2 gates, accessed from different ends of the fairgrounds. For access to week-long parking (leaving your car parked here all week), ENTER FROM SOUTH SIDE. Use Gate 5 from Fox Rd. off U.S. Rt "Week-long Parking" Gate GPS coordinates are: 40 degrees ' N 84 degrees ' W 789 Ft. For access to Car Camper parking (only if you have paid for a Car Camper permit), ENTER FROM NORTH SIDE. Enter from Balyeat Ave. (off U.S. 127). "Car Camper" Gate GPS coordinates: 40 degrees ' N 84 degrees ' W 789 Ft. The GOBA News, published 4 times/year (March, May, June, August) by Columbus Outdoor Pursuits 1525 Bethel Rd., Ste. 100 Columbus, OH CO P is a nonprofit, nonpolitical organization exclusively for charitable and educational purposes and is dedicated to providing outdoor education and recreation.

3 Increase your Pedal Power! Decrease your aches & pains! Once again The GOBA Sports Massage Team will be ON HAND for our KNEADY cycling friends. Those of you that have used our services in the past realize the wonderful benefits that massage therapy provides. Whether it's improving your muscle output, working out those aches and pains from a good day's ride, or preventing them --Nothing Beats a Good Massage! There's a reason world class athletes always receive massage therapy as a part of their regular care. It makes a difference! Discover the pleasure of waking up the next day refreshed and looking forward to getting back on your bike. We are professional massage therapists from around the state, licensed with the Ohio Medical Board, and experienced in working with all levels of athlete - especially cyclists! Our fees are $15.00 for each 12-minute session. Multiple sessions are encouraged for maximum effectiveness. This is a wonderful and affordable opportunity for highly trained work. There's about 150 years worth of experience gathered together in one spot for your use. Give it a try! Look for our big blue and white tent at each overnight location, except Van Wert. This is the best money spent on the tour. Ask anyone!! This is our Silver GOBA! 25 years! Discover the reason we've been an important part of the tour. Got questions? Evonne at evonne@cinci.rr.com. The GOBA News, May, 2015, P. 3 Salute to our Golden GOBAs! Thursday, Bowling Green If you will be riding on your 10th, 15th, 20th, 25th, or 27th GOBA tour this year, you are an "All-Year" rider, we are celebrating your 3,000 + miles with us as a "Golden GOBA". We are providing a special supper only for "Golden GOBAs" on Thursday in Bowling Green. Invitations will be ed/mailed by the end of May with the details and RSVP's will be requested, so that we can have plenty of yummy food ready for you. If you do not receive an invitation by June 15 and you fall in the "Golden GOBA" category, please contact us at gobainfo@goba.com or , ext. 1, so that we can include you in the fun. BAER WHEELS Columbus, OH Bicycle Shops If you need a bicycle for GOBA, or need a bicycle tune up or equipment, we recommend one of these shops who are planning to help GOBA riders during the tour this year. They are well prepared to answer your questions and take care of your biking needs. CENTURY CYCLES shops in Medina, Peninsula, Rocky River & Solon BREAKAWAY CYCLING Delaware, OH V O L U N T E E R O P P O R T U N I T I E S Volunteers needed for Registration & Info Booth. Are you helping friends, family by driving their sag vehicle and are looking for something to do? We have a great place to spend a little time. Help out at info/registration booth. You will help support regular staff. Work a couple of 2 hour shifts, you get something special. gobainfo@goba.com GOBA Shirts & Jerseys T-shirts: If you register after April 30 and ordered t-shirts, but do not receive yours in the mail, pick them up during GOBA. Jerseys: Pick up your jersey in camp at the beginning of the week. GOBA Hams Stop at the GOBA merchandise booth -- under the yellow canopy. Bike mobile hams and amateur operators stationed along the course each day are always needed. If you are interested in helping in this capacity, contact Jeff Slattery, N8SUZ, via at n8suz@arrl.net. You can join the GOBAhams Yahoo discussion group by going to For those of you interested in using GPS receivers on GOBA, our communications team is working on a set of GPS waypoint files for the route. They will be made available for downloading from the gobahams.org website the Wednesday before GOBA begins. You may also download a simple software program called EasyGPS for downloading and uploading waypoint files from the Internet and your GPS. Please also check the Info Board in camp daily for updates, as the route is subject to change, due to circumstances beyond our control. For more details, see the March Newsletter, p. 5, and June issue. For license testing on June 20 and other info, see Ohio Laws and Bicycling Get ready for GOBA by brushing up on the bicycle rules of the road. Here are some important links to review before June: (1) See March News, p. 8 for Digest of Ohio Bicycle Traffic Laws. (2) John Allen's "Street Smarts" There's More to Come Check for Updates on See p. 2 for Reservation deadlines. May 20 June 4 Deadline for Registration or Cancellation June Newsletter mailing (with directions to Van Wert) June 18 5 pm: GOBA office closes until June 29 June noon: GOBA camp/registration opens; no camping prior to June 20; Bike Parade in evening June 21 GOBA 27 (start pedaling!) Aug. 20 Newsletter mailing Nov. 23 GOBA-2016 Route Announcement Dec GOBA Calendar mailing (photos from 2015)

4 The GOBA News, May, 2015, p B L U F F T O N Sunday, June 21 Bluffton Area Chamber of Commerce blufftonchamber@gmail.com , ext. 118 explorebluffton.com Follow us on Facebook We invite you to explore Bluffton. Camp is at Bluffton University. There you will find: Santa Claus in June playing music from the 70s and 80s. He carries a naughty and nice meter, so watch out. A chain-saw wood carving artist. You may watch his progress. Captain James Riley (Bluffton s Riley Creek named after him). This unforgettable character led his crew through the Sahara Desert after a shipwreck off the Moroccan coast in He ll tell you all about it. Ride a 1915 Studebaker fire truck. The pride of Bluffton is bright red and refurbished. You can take a spin around town and even ring its bell. Indoor floor sleeping space is available for a fee on campus. No reservations and it s first-come, first-served. Lion and Lamb Peace Arts Center resource for youth and parents. It promotes peace and justice, cultural understanding, nonviolent response to conflict with an emphasis on these themes for children. You ll find lots of children s books. Shuttle buses go downtown, to the Bluffton Community Swimming Pool and to Southgate Lanes bowling alley. Southgate hosts some adult refreshment and bands a little more crazy than downtown. Want to stay in a home over night? Contact Mitch Kingsley at kingsleym@bluffton.edu. Downtown Bluffton we ll close a section of Main Street with bands performing. Several small shops will be open including a gourmet popcorn shop, movie theatre, international crafts, used book store and coffee shop. Bluffton Public Library, on Main Street, will be open. Event planning there is underway. Visit an 1840s farm homestead. Rural Bluffton was settled in the 1800s by Swiss and German immigrants. The Schumacher Homestead, built in the 1840s, is home of the Swiss Historical Society. You ll find activities for youth and adults. A shuttle bus goes from campus to the homestead all day. Bike paths: You ll find a bike path along an abandoned railroad that takes you to the fast-food area. So, you won t compete with vehicle traffic. Another bike path takes you under Interstate 75 to our village park. Watch the following websites and facebook sites for Bluffton information: and D E F I A N C E Monday & Tuesday, June 22 & 23 Defiance Development & Visitors Bureau visitdefianceohio.com Many activities await you as you enter Defiance on Monday. Your entry path takes you right through the heart of downtown Defiance, across the river near the Fort Grounds and the confluence, then straight on to the campus of Defiance College. Lunch opportunities will be waiting for you on campus and directly off campus for those who need immediate nourishment. Then settle in for a fun filled day and a half with us. The information booth will be manned with friendly faces and packed with ideas on how to enjoy your stay. On Monday evening, you will have more fun than you can remember as you join us at Pontiac Park just south of the campground for our GOBA Fraternity party. Join us as we provide all you need to dress yourself in a Toga for the evening. Open mic activities, food and fun will entertain you while we round off the party with 2 professional comedians. What is a Frat party without a "Kegger"? Look for local ladies providing the answer to that question near the kegs of Root Beer available for float making. After a good night of sleep, spend the day exploring one of 2015's Best Hometowns in Ohio. Start in scenic downtown Defiance where our retail and specialty shops will be open to entice you. Visit the numerous historic sites from the fort grounds to a canal lock or spend time in our local museum. Some of NW Ohio's best opportunities to eat are nestled right here in Defiance. If restaurants are not what you are looking for, visit the Farmer's Market, a food vendor court or any of the local non-profits that will be providing meals. On Tuesday evening, join us again in Pontiac Park where we will be celebrating your Graduation Party for GOBA Defiance. An authentic German meal will be made available by a local High School German club. Join us for Graduation Cake, a memento from your stay and prize drawings all topped off with a performance from the Ted Lange Band, a premier Dance band who will entertain you with music that includes English, Czech, German and Polish backgrounds. All of this and much more is being planned for your stay. We look forward to your visit in Defiance "where friends, families and the rivers meet". For advance information feel free to call the Defiance Development & Visitors Bureau office at or go to our website at Tuesday night is Graduation N i g h t i n Defiance! Earn your degree in Cycology from Defiance: Pick up your entry card at the Defiance information booth as soon as you arrive on Monday. Begin your "studies" Monday when you arrive at camp (don't worry it's as easy as visiting a restaurant, a retail store and any historical site). By following the instructions and completing the card you will be eligible for prizes to be awarded at the Tuesday night entertainment: Complete the card and you are eligible to receive a keepsake graduation piece and be entered to win a piece of cycling artwork from nationally acclaimed and locally born photographer, Chuck Haney. A special "Eddie Bauer Scholarship" will be awarded. And the first 100 riders to arrive at the ceremony will receive Eddie Bauer gift tins - but only one rider will receiv e t he E ddi e B auer scholarship!

5 BOWLING GREEN Wednesday & Thursday June 24 & 25 Bowling Green Convention & Visitors Bureau Visitbgohio.org W elcome to Bowling Green, Ohio where education rules! The home of Bowling Green State University, BG will school you in Cycology and help you get your Cycology Degree. Your host site will be the hom e of the fighting Bobcats on at Bowling Green High School. In camp, BGHS will be hosting many meals, camping and floor sleeping as well as entertainment; such as a Variety Show & Movies in the Performing Arts Center and a g o o d o ld fash io n e d H o m e c o m in g Celebration complete with bonfire, pep rally, and high school dance! City Park will be offering their City Pool & Water Park and a Concert in the Park. New gym class offerings from the BG Community Center to include a day pass and Bubble Soccer! O T T A W A Friday, June 26 Ottawa Area Chamber of Commerce OttawaChamber.com GOBAville in Ottawa will be teaming with things to do! In Camp The Putnam County YMCA opens 5:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. offering use of the indoor pool, basketball courts, yoga, and the fitness center for $3/person. Or use the Y locker room and shower facilities. Facility details at Children's games, W ii and water activities in camp, 2:00-5:00 p.m. by Melissa & Parker, the Therapy Dog. The Putnam County District Library, is A/C and open for GOBA 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. Join other cyclists in a book discussion on Bill O'Reilly's Killing Lincoln, watch the movie "Guardians of the Galaxy" at 3:00 p.m., enjoy snacks, free internet, restrooms and cell-phone charging station. M ommy & Me Princess Party at Center Stage Dance Academy, dress up in costumes, dance, make a craft, enjoy a tea party. No pre-registration needed. Also from our Wood County Parks we will offer our Slippery Elm Trail for an optional ride for more exercise. The downtown will be offering their F arm ers M a rk e t w ith fo o d an d entertainment. The Wood County Public Library can be your respite for your reading and relaxation pleasure. The CVB will be passing out a Cycology BG Syllabus at the info booth with super saving offers from businesses. Other offerings include an afternoon Field Trip to Snook's Dream Cars Automobile Museum and the W ood County Historical Center. BG is looking forward to your arrival and will help you to achieve your degree in BG style! Other sleeping options are our new residence halls on the campus of BGSU (see March Newsletter and Lodging page on goba.com) and our hotels. Please visit our website for all BG lodging information. Highlighted Attractions Offerings: BG City Pool & Water Park - New state of the art and award winning W ater Park complete with lazy river, slides, splash pad and refreshments. Near Camp Ottawa Memorial Park features 100 year old shade trees, children's play equipment, baseball fields, disc golf, and 10 shelter houses with seating and Ottawa Memorial Swimming Pool is open in the park 1:00-7:00 p.m. It's GOBA Day at the pool, $1.00 admission. WALNUT & MAIN STREET IS WHERE YOU WANT TO BE! Visit the Walnut Street Art Fair, the Ottawa Farmers Market, a cyclist-themed art exhibit at the Schroeder Center for the Arts, and the Cavern Club named after the pub where the Beatles were founded. Step inside the Cavern Club to see 20 original Beatles paintings depicting the song titles on exhibit 12:00-7:00 p.m. and enjoy food and beverages too! Calling all OSU fans! Ottawa is home to O.S.U. -licensed artist Don Huber who has been illustrating events, cards and athletics for the Ohio State University over 25 years. Meet Don, check out his GOBA surprise and miniature copies of a limited-edition cycling painting. Don's full tribute to OSU fans is at "Buckeye Country Art" located inside Phantasm Designs, 122 W. Main St. The quaint Main Street Ottawa business district features premier clothing, jewelry and gift stores, a gourmet cupcake shop and several restaurants. Create a family mosaic to commemorate your GOBA experience! Visit "The Studio", a new local art center at 305 E. The GOBA News, May, 2015, P. 5 BG Community Center - State of the art work out facility offering Day Passes and the New Bubble Soccer for adult group fun. BG Farm ers Market - Downtown BG with vendors offering produce, flowers, food, art, crafts and entertainment. Slippery Elm Trail - Optional ride on our 13 mile asphalt trail that goes from BG to North Baltimore. Snook's Dream Cars Automobile Museum - Housed in a replica 1940's service station replica with cars and memorabilia from the 30's to 70's in period settings. Wood County Historical Center - Museum housing the history of W ood County with beautiful grounds, log cabin and home of the Lunatic House. Wood County Public Library - Two floors with millions of stories, great room lounge, children's area and more! Look for additional entertainment offerings in our Bowling Green GOBA Program while you are in Defiance to plan your days in BG! W e look forward to meeting and hosting you! Main, A/C, lots of seating, open 3:00-6:00 p.m. $15 per family, pre-registration required at Rhonda@walnutstreetcreative.com. Check out local history, antiques, vintage finds and collectibles at Stowe's Art & M u s e u m, N. D e fia n c e S treet and Matilda's Attic, 227 E. Main St. Bus shuttles and the Lions Club Travel for Tips Vans will run throughout the day to: The Putnam County Fair located a few miles away from camp. Putnam County Courthouse tours at 3:30 and 4:30 p.m. Historic Glandorf St. John the Baptist Catholic Church and Shrine tour. The Gilboa Quarry (featuring the deepest body of water in Ohio) and the nearby Hillside Winery. The Quarry Farm Nature Preserve and & Conservation Farm: trails, animal sanctuary and cabin. Song Contest The 27th Annual GOBA Song Contest will be held in Ottawa Memorial Park, East 11th Street., Friday night. Schedule of Events: 6:00-6:30 p.m. Children's Theater performance 6:30-7:30 p.m. GOBA Song Contest 7:30-9:00 p.m. live music by Cross-Eyed Willie, new country and 1960's-1990's rock

6 The GOBA News, May, 2015, p. 6 Song Contest Encore Once again, we'll bring back the always popular GOBA song contest Friday night in Ottawa, 6:30 p.m. -- at the downtown entertainment, a short shuttle bus ride or walk from camp. As before, you and/or a group of riders is invited to pen an original GOBA song (using a familiar tune) and perform it for GOBA...up to 2 minutes including intro. The top winner will receive a free 2016 GOBA registration (groups will share one registration) and the recognition of a large audience that doesn't have any tomatoes in hand. By the way, food may not be a part of the contest! There will be a sign up form at the information booth; sign up by Tuesday, 6:30 pm, and be prepared to leave a copy of your lyrics at that time (so the taste police can review them). Remember, it's a family tour, so CLEAN and FUN. On Thursday after 3:00, pick up your lyrics at the Info Booth; you'll have a notice of acceptance or rejection. Due to time limitations, we can only consider one song per performer/group, and only the first 20 entries will be considered. The order of the songs will be posted on the Info Board Thursday evening. SAFETY SHOW When you arrive in Van Wert, all riders of all ages will read and sign the Safety Pledge to receive the rider packet. In addition, we ask first-time GOBA participants and riders 15 and under with their parent or guardian to watch the safety video. The safety video is 12 1/2 minutes long and reviews the Ohio State Bicycle Road Rules and pointers for on the road. We take this time also to welcome you and give you other pertinent information Children riding are given special gifts to help them understand the importance of for both families and new riders to acquaint them with GOBA. I look forward to meeting everyone on June 20. Safe Cycling, Ginnie Schaffer, Safety Cycle Coordinator, ginnie.schaffer@gmail.com DAILY FRESH TOWELS...RSVP BY JUNE 12 This year's GOBA Towel Service is brought to you by Columbus Outdoor Pursuits. $20 in Advance until June 12, online pre-paid orders only $25 at GOBA Information Booth starting June 20 (see Mary), cash only Fees include Ohio Sales Tax. Reserve at On the left side of home page, click link for "Towel Service" under 27th GOBA You will find us every day near the Shower Trucks. This year we will have wristbands for all paid registrants. Towels only available at the Towel Booth. We will not be able to give refunds. All proceeds are used to further the mission of Columbus Outdoor Pursuits: education in outdoor activities. Route Notes, 2015 The good news about this year's route is: it's flat. The bad news is: it's flat, and that's because flat terrain means you'll struggle against headwinds at some point. Practice with headwinds all you can this spring. Please note: in some towns, laws strictly prohibit cycling on sidewalks (you will be fined). Please obey the local laws and help the cause of cycling. When you pick up your packet in Van Wert, please look for the list of Food Stops & Attractions to find hours and admissions for stops along the route. GOBA works with local non-profit groups to offer food stops, 3 per day, except for the optional days and Saturday. While we hope you do patronize the food stops (they're fund-raisers for the local groups), if they run out of food, be prepared to go to local groceries or restaurants. It's also a good idea to carry with you plenty of water and snacks for emergencies. All week, support services are available on the route from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm (until 4:00 pm on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday). Your riding should be completed by these times each day. Route services (sags, repair, emergency medical, local police, food stops, etc.) are available only during these times. You may start your riding by 6 am, if you wish, but not before, as it is still dark before then. If you are sagged more than twice during GOBA week, your third sag transport will be to your car, or you will be asked to make other arrangements for the remainder of the tour. The GOBA route is marked with the letter "A": alternating yellow and white for "regular" ride days and orange for the optional loop days. Please also check the Info Board in camp daily for updates, as the route is subject to change, due to circumstances beyond our control. When you're on a bike path, please remember that these are public multi-use trails and all safety precautions still apply. Be alert for posts in the trail at road crossings. At intersections, do not call out "clear" to the riders behind you. Be extremely cautious at crossings of high traffic roads and railroad tracks. Be alert to changes in road surface which can affect your control of the bike, such as tar and chip surfaces, potholes, short gravel sections, and construction projects. This year's route includes some blind curves and rough spots, and may have gravel or potholes. If conditions make it difficult to keep your bike under control, you may be advised to walk your bike. We do this to protect the other 2,999 cyclists as well as you. Remember that the GOBA route uses public roadways and you are sharing the space with motor vehicles. Ride single file in presence of traffic. See Forms & Links page of goba.com for articles by Dr. Tom Pommering, GOBA Medical Co-Director, on health topics for cyclists. Thanks to Nationwide Children's Hospital Sports Medicine. Always ride to right of center. Some roads are very narrow and don't have a center line, so it's doubly important to ride on the right-hand side of the road. Get off the road surface when walking the bike. Let's remember to practice courtesy on the road as well, so that we impart a shining example of all that's good about bicycling. Safety and courtesy...it's a two-way street. Law enforcement officers will be watching that you stop at stop signs and red lights and obey all traffic laws. Don't be surprised if they cite you for ignoring traffic laws. This is for your safety as well as the safety of others around you. See March News issue, p. 8 for Ohio laws. Camp Note: Please DO NOT DRINK water sources labeled NON-POTABLE. In case of severe weather: During lightning, do not continue to ride; take shelter wherever you can find it. If you come upon a flooded road, wait until a local sheriff or ham volunteer can investigate, or until a detour can be designed; don't charge blindly into it. If the rain is heavy, take a break. Remember, cars won't see you easily in a heavy rain. Give other bikes adequate clearance. And just think...on June 27, you'll be a GOBA veteran!

7 O N T H E R O U T E Mon., June 22: ATTRACTION Columbus Grove will feature "Twin Billing", literally! Besides being the site of your AM Snack stop at VFW Post 9648, right across the street, twin brothers Larry and Gary are opening their Clymer's Wildlife Museum for your visit. You will be able to see their amazing collection of mounted animals from their decades of hunting expeditions. Guides will be on hand to answer questions and tell stories. Admission: $5.00. Wed., June 24: PM SNACK Welcome to GRAND RAPIDS - OHIO! We will be your PM snack stop on Wed. Grand Rapids is a restored canal town nestled along the southern bank of the Maumee River between Defiance and Bowling Green. Visitors are able to step back in time and enjoy buildings that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places with a natural setting on the river. You can also visit a totally restored water and steam powered mill, on the north side of the river or even pretend that you are an 1800's settler and ride the canal boat pulled by mules down the restored Miami & Erie Canal. You can eat, drink and be merry at the PM snack stop at our Village Park where grass, shade and a walk on the tow path will enhance your stop. We will offer light sandwiches, pizza, fresh fruit, ice cream and a variety of other snacks and Church Services in Van Wert, 6/20 & 6/21 Catholic churches in the Van Wert area offer mass on Saturday evening and Sunday morning. Watch for the GOBA June Newsletter for a listing of the church closest to the fairgrounds. In addition, a non-denominational church service will be offered in camp on Sunday morning in Van Wert. For details, see GOBA June Newsletter and check with local info at the Fairgrounds. drinks. As Ohio villages go, Grand Rapids is the best! We look forward to seeing all of you on the 24th! Wed., June 24: ATTRACTION A combination of fun and history offer unique experiences at Providence Metropark. Ride The Volunteer canal boat at the plodding pace set by the mules. Witness the awesome power of water at the Isaac Ludwig Mill. Visit the Heritage Center for stories about the colorful town of Providence. For a walking or biking adventure, follow the Towpath Trail through Bend View and Farnsworth Metroparks (nine miles one way). Want a shorter walk? Head west to the Providence Dam for a scenic view of the mighty Maumee (one mile round trip). The Isaac Ludwig Mill will be open noon-5pm that day and the Volunteer Canal Boat will run at 12:30pm, 2pm, and 3:30pm. Each canal boat ride is approximately 45 minutes long. $1 off an adult ticket with GOBA wristband at the ticket booth. Thurs.., June 25: AM/PM SNACK Pemberville is thrilled to be welcoming GOBA enthusiasts to the village nestled along the Portage River. Our small village boasts big country charm and plenty of friendly folks. As a resting point along the optional route GPS RIDER MAPS On Monday, June 15, the GPS GOBA rider maps will be available for download. Links & tutorials will be on goba.com & gobahams.org. Due to unforeseen detours during GOBAweek, you should check daily for routing changes. For updates, see the June Newsletter and goba.com on June 15. Emergency Message Line During GOBA-2015: You can leave this number with family members who, in case of emergency, will be able to leave a message for you. Emergency messages only will be posted on the board at the Information Booth. only from 12 noon on 6/20 until 12 noon on 6/ GOBA is a project of Columbus Outdoor Pursuits (COP) The GOBA News, May, 2015, P. 7 on June 25, we plan to pull out all the stops! As you travel along your journey on State Route 105, you will first come to the Pemberville-Freedom Fire Hall brimming with good eats. Expect great coffee, homemade pie and baked goods, hand-dipped ice cream and more. Come on downtown and take in the sights. Visit Beeker s General Store, one of Ohio s oldest general stores less than a block from the Fire Hall. Beeker s carries Amish edibles, a counter-top full of nostalgic candy, along with unique gifts and keepsakes. The old creaking floors guarantee a step back in time. Riverbank Antiques features three levels of quality antiques and keepsakes. The scenic Portage River runs along the downtown business district where you can stumble upon a local nature trail. Pemberville s Historic Opera House and Town Hall feature one of Ohio s oldest working theatres. The old velvet drapes and chandelier lighting makes this a must see. Historical Society volunteers will be present at the Oldest Frame House, One Room School, and Blacksmith Shop which is within walking distance of the downtown. All are historically furnished and well maintained gems of Pemberville. For those of you that have biked GOBA in the past, remember stopping in Pemberville years ago? And yes, we will have I P ed in Pemberville buttons. Proudly serving your morning and afternoon snack EMERGENCY ALERT SYSTEMS: Defiance & Bowling Green Register your cell phone number in advance and you will receive a recorded phone call in case of any serious emergency in the area of the GOBA campground. Defiance: Mon., 6/22-Wed., 6/24. GOBA camp is Defiance College. The system is called Nixle System. Text and put in the Defiance zip code (43512) in the message line. Once this message is sent you will receive the same messages as Defiance City/County residents. Bowling Green: Wed., 6/24-Fri., 6/26. GOBA camp is Bowling Green High School (zip 43402). You are invited to sign up for the "NIXLE" Program through the Wood County Sheriff's office. They make every effort to put weather watches and warnings out on their NIXLE system when they are issued by the NWS. You can sign up to receive the Sheriff's office alerts by g oing t o t h ei r w eb s i t e a t

8 GOBA 2015: The GOBA News-May Columbus Outdoor Pursuits 1525 Bethel Rd., Ste. 100 Columbus, OH The GOBA News, May, 2015, P. 8 THANK YOU to the Supporters of GOBA-2015 REI Village, Saturday, June 20 in Van Wert The REI Village Tour is stopping by GOBA! The REI Village is traveling interactive trailer where you can build your own sunglasses, check out new product, play games, much more! REI members will receive a special gift from Kleen Kanteen gobainfo@goba.com Once again the Bob Evans restaurants on the 2015 route will participate in the Community Fund Raisers (CFR) program. 15% of any purchase by a GOBA rider at participating Bob Evans Restaurant will go back to GOBA. Restaurant locations will be provided at the campsites. Last year's program was very successful. We look forward to having Bob Evans once again supporting the Great Ohio Bicycle Adventure. GOBA 27 Contest Count the stars as you are riding on the GOBA route. Count any Stars that you see on barns, sheds or houses.. Count only on the mandatory ride days: Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Turn in your count by 4:00 to the info tent. The "Winner" will be chosen out of all entries that match the number counted by the GOBA staff. The one winner will be announced at the Song contest on Friday in Ottawa. Check the schedule for time.