HistoricNew BernRide 2014

WHAT IS MS? Multiple sclerosis, an unpredictable, often disabling disease of the central nervous system, interrupts the flow of information within the brain, and between the brain and body. Symptoms range from numbness and tingling to blindness and paralysis. The progress, severity and specific symptoms of MS in any one person cannot yet be predicted, but advances in research and treatment are moving us closer to a world free of MS. Most people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50, with at least two to three times more women than men being diagnosed with the disease. MS affects more than 2.3 million people worldwide.

Wel

com

e to

Bik

e M

S b

bik

eMSn

ewbe

rn.o

rg

2013 TOP 10 INDIVIDUALS1. Tom Andrews - $23,4202. Bobb Head - $16,750 3. Blanche Dean - $16,060 4. Elizabeth Page - $15,490 5. David Brizel - $13,5156. Tim Shain - $11,770 7. Edward Halperin - $11,329 8. Sharon Roggenbuck - $10,715 9. Bruce Bokish - $10,500 10. Lisa Kornstein - $10,195

2013 TOP TEN TEAMS 1. Selma Cyclepaths - $127,6082. TeamCBC - $127,5403. MISSING SPOKES - $65,7804. Biogen Idec Rolling Clones - $63,9195. On Draft - $61,2486. Team MANA- $51,0177. Joannes Rolling Rs - $46,2058. Vin - $46,1159. Team GSK - $43,19510. EZ Riders - $38,103

Thank you for taking the first step in the fight against MS by registering for 2014 Bike MS: Historic New Bern! Last year, we had over 2,000 cyclists and raised over $1.74 million which helped to fund MS research, programs, services and advocacy. If you are a past participant, we are glad to have you back! If you are a first time participant, welcome to the largest cycling family in the nation.

Our goal for 2014 is to raise $1.876 million with the help of 2,300 cyclists. This is why we are counting on YOU! With YOUR help and dedicated fundraising efforts, we can and will reach our goal. Inside, you will find fundraising tools and techniques, information on all fundraising clubs and perks, a guide to all Bike MS team activities, safety and training tips, and information about MS and the services our chapter offers. Reading through this packet will help you start a successful season of fundraising and cycling.

Bike MS: Historic New Bern is part of the largest cycling series in the US. With two memorable days of scenic cycling in Eastern North Carolina, this ride will not disappoint! Its a great event full of fun, fitness, and fundraising.

Thank you again for cycling with us! We are soexcited to make this our best Bike MS season yet! If you have any questions, please call the Greater Carolinas Chapter at 1-800 FIGHT MS or (919) 834-0678 or e-mail Mandy Wellons at mandy.wellons@nmss.org.

for aGood CAUSE!$

NEED ASSISTANCE?By Phone:(919)834-06781-800 FIGHT MS

Mail Donations To:National MS SocietyGreater Carolinas Chapter3101 Industrial Drive, Suite 210Raleigh, NC 27609

bikeMScarolinas.org

Sixty percent of all the funds raised goes toward programs, services, and advocacy for the 17,400 people living with MS right here in North and South Carolina. Forty percent of all funds raised supports national research to find the cause and cure of MS!

MS RESEARCHThe complexity of MS necessitates a holistic approach when it comes to research - a comprehensive strategy that can propel knowledge, better treatments, health care policies, and new disease management therapies forward, faster.

We are a driving force of MS research and treatment to stop disease progression, restore function, and end MS forever.

The National MS Society supports and funds research activites spanning ALL research stages, including early discovery research, translational research that brings promising ideas forward into actual therapeutic solutions for testing, and clinical trials. Our unique approach drives the pursuit of all promising avenues that can impact those living with multiple sclerosis.

ADVOCACYAt the National MS Society, we relentlessly advocate for federal, state, and local government change essential to people with MS. We must work together to break down barriers to care, improve access to quality health services, and make MS therapies more affordable. We must fight for disability rights, MS research funding, and long-term care resources.

We are activists who make MS issues national priority issues. We share our personal stories, and we ask our public officials for change that benefits people living with MS and others with disabilities and chronic illnesses.

PROGRAMS & SERVICESThe Greater Carolinas Chapter is committed to expanding knowledge of MS, enhancing access to MS specialty medical care, and empowering people with MS to live as independently as possible. These goals are achieved through national and local programs and activities that: Promote and support knowledge, health,

and independence. Inform and educate people with MS

and their families, professionals, public officials and the general public about MS.

Provide support programs that help people with MS and their families cope with the changes and challenges that MS presents.

Help people gain access to community resources and quality, specialty health care.

Stimulate changes and developments in the community and public policy beneficial to people affected by MS.

Fill gaps in community resources.

2

2014 PRIZE STRUCTUREFUNDRAISING PRIZE

$800 $50 credit to sponsoring bike shop of your choice

$1,000 Jewelry Boomerang Club

$1,300 $75 credit

$2,000 Carolinas Passport Program*

$2,500 $100 credit

$5,000 $150 credit and National Passport Program*

$7,000 $200 credit or Tour of Champions **

$10,000+ $300 credit or Tour of Champions with a guest **

Bike Shop credit is not cumulative

MS Give Back ClubRather than accepting fundraising prizes, these riders ensure every possible dollar goes to our mission. Funds that would have purchased fundraising prizes will be used to help people with MS.

Jewelry Boomerang ClubJewelry Boomerang Club members turn in $1000 or more, and receive the 2015 Jewelry Boomerang jersey. Additionally, our Jewelry Boomerang members receive first access to hotels as well as discounted registration.

Top 100 ClubThe Top 100 fundraising cyclists are recognized on the Bike MS website, newsletter, and will receive a special yellow bib number reflecting their fundraising rank for the ride the following year. The Top 100 fundraisers also receive free registration, first access to hotel rooms, a VIP reception, and Top 100 apparel.

Passport Program* - NEW LEVEL ADDED!If you raise $2000 or more in 2014, you can ride in any of the other two Carolinas Bike MS Events for only $50 in 2015! If you raise more than $5000 in 2014, you can ride in any Bike MS event in the country for only $50 in 2015!! You must ride in your home ride again to take advantage of this program.

Tour of Champions **Participants who raise $7,000 are elegible to attend Tour of Champions. Raise $10,000 to attend with a guest at no charge. Participants receive free travel and hotel accommodations, and a cycling tour, as well as a reception and awards dinner. The 2015 Tour of Champions will be in San Antonio, TX. For more info, contact Mandy.Wellons@nmss.org.

RAISERECEIVE &

9

NATIONAL MS SOCIETYThe National MS Society addresses the challenges of each person affected by MS. To fulfill this mission, the Society funds cutting-edge research, drives change through advocacy, facilitates professional education, collaborates with MS organizations around the world, and provides programs and services designed to help people with MS and their families move forward with their lives. In 2013 alone, the Society invested $50 million to support over 350 research projects around the world while providing programs and services that assisted more than one million people. The Society is dedicated to achieving a world free of MS. Join the movement at www.nationalMSsociety.org.

Early and ongoing treatment with an FDA-approved therapy can make a difference for people with multiple sclerosis. Learn about your options by talking to your health care professional and contacting the National MS Society at www.nationalMSsociety.org or 1-800-344-4867 (1-800-FIGHT-MS).

National MS Society

SAFETYThe safety of our cyclists is our number one priority for Bike MS. Each year, thousands of participants join in approximately 100 rides across the nation. There will be a great mix of riders with different experience and skill levels on the road together. To help ensure that everyone has a great ride and arrives safely at the finish line we are working together to create a proactive approach to safety.

Safety isnt just about wearing your cycling helmet and knowing the rules of the road. Those are very important measures, but cycling safety involves much more. Bike safety includes a wide variety of topics including hydration, bike maintenance, group riding, attire, cycling etiquette and much more.

Please review the compiled bike safety information resources located here.

RULES OF THE ROAD You must be 12 years old to ride. Cyclists under 18 must be accompanied by a parent

or guardian at all times. A ratio of one adult for every three minors is required. Waivers are required to be signed by all participants. Anyone under 18 must have their

waiver notarized prior to riding. Trailers are not allowed on any Bike MS route. Helmets must be worn at all times. Seventy-five percent of fatal or permanent injuries in

bicycle accidents are caused by head traumas. Amplified sound and headphones are not allowed on the route.

BIKE IN GROUPS Even if you are riding in Bike MS as an individual rider, you are still riding among thousands of others, especially at the start of the ride. Remember, stay aware of those around you and be considerate to your fellow cyclists. Do not draft behind someone you do not know. Get acquainted with the cyclists you are riding with. Do not use Bike MS weekend as your firstpacelineexperience.

3

For a list of Official Training Rides and other community rides, visit the Summer Calendar

page on bikeMSnewbern.org.

8

FUNDRAISING TIPS NEW PROGRAMS&

LETTER WRITINGGrab your holiday card list or your wedding invitee list and begin writing! Letters can expand your donor base to people you may not see on a regular basis. We have sample fundraising letters available in the resource section of our website for your convenience. If writing your own letter, use these tips: Include a self-addressed stamped envelope with your letter (using your address). State your fundraising goal and consider adding a suggested donation amount. Provide a description of MS and/or tell your story - show your passion for our mission

and for cycling. Send thank you notes as soon as people donate.

MINI FUNDRAISING IDEAS Include a plug for your fundraising efforts in your voicemail or in your email signature Use special occasions (big sporting events, birthdays, etc.) to host a pledge party. Ask

for donations in lieu of gifts or just ask for donations! Host a bake sale, craft sale, or garage sale at your local place of worship, school, or in

your neighborhood. Get local companies involved. For example, ask a restaurant if they will host an MS night

where a portion of the sales goes toward the mission. Or, ask local retailers to donate a product or service that you can raffle off.

Plan a tournament - bowling, golf, tennis, poker, pool, etc. - where the proceeds go toward your fundraising goal.

Do what you love and the money will follow!

MATCHING GIFTS: DOUBLE YOUR DOLLAR$Many companies have matching gift programs where they match a percentage of their employees charitable donations. Be sure to ask your company and prompt your donors to ask their companies about matching gift programs. After applying for any available matching gifts, please submit a copy of the form/e-mail confirmation to the National MS Society in your money collection envelope. Learn about Matching Gifts here.

I RIDE WITH MS PROGRAMDo you know someone living with MS that is riding in Bike MS this year? Encourage them to participate in our I Ride with MS program by visiting http://www.msonetoone.com and registering. Participants will receive a complimentary I Ride with MS jersey that will help us celebrate them and their accomplishments as well as provide inspiration to other cyclists and volunteers participating in Bike MS. This program is made possible through partnership with Genzyme and MS One to One.

LINKING LIVESThe Linking Lives program matches cyclists or virtual cyclists with someone who has MS. In this partnership, each person encourages the other as they go trough their individual challenges. If you are interested in participating, please email linking.lives@nmss.org.

One Cyclist + One Person with MS

= One Meaningful Connection

SAFETYTRAINING &

4 7

WE LOVE OUR TEAMS!Teams are the driving force of Bike MS. Last year 156 teams rode, volunteered, raised funds, and had a blast at Bike MS. Teams have the largest impact on our mission - to create a world free of MS - because they raised 82% of the fundraising total. Teams also have the most FUN at the event. Think about it - you get to hang out with your friends, family, and colleagues while youre cycling or volunteering during the weekend. Then, you can relax with your teammates at your team tent while you enjoy some music and good eats. Sound fun? Join or create a team today!

WHAT IS A TEAM?A team consists of a captain, at least three additional members, and a team name. Ask your friends, family, company, church, school, or civic organization to join in your efforts to achieve a world free of MS. If you are interested in starting a team, please email mandy.wellons@nmss.org.

FUNDRAISINGFirst and foremost, set a team fundraising goal. Try not to set an arbitrary number. Instead, think about what you and your teammates are capable of raising individually and then calculate your teams fundraising goal. Many teams plan and execute mini fundraisers (garage sales, tournaments) to boost the teams fundraising total. While these mini fundraisers can be very successful, they are not critical to a teams success. However, it is critical for every team member to individually fundraise. This means that every team member is asking his/her friends, family, and co-workers for donations. Every team members individual fundraising total automatically rolls up into the teams total. If you would like to discuss fundraising tips or strategy, please contact Mandy Wellons (mandy.wellons@nmss.org).

TEAM VILLAGEAt Saturdays and Sundays finish lines, you and your team can have your very own tent in Team Village. Ask your friends and family members to head out to the finish line early and set up a tailgating tent, comfy chairs, fun dcor, and some snacks. You and your teammates will enjoy hanging out after cycling on Saturday and before heading to your hotel. Your teams tailgating tent can be as simple or as extravagant as you desire. Creativity will be rewarded - think tailgating at the Super Bowl! Dont forget to bring games like corn hole, horseshoes, etc. to enjoy during the afternoon/evening!

TEAM AWARDSROOKIE AWARDSNew teams that excel in fundraising and recruitment will be recognized.

BEST TEAM TENTWe want you to go all out! Think tailgating at the Super Bowl! Did I hear someone say they are having couches, a flat screen T.V., a margarita maker, and a hot tub (okay, well maybe not the hot tub)?

BEST TEAM JERSEYBe creative! Dont forget to include the Bike MS and the National MS Society logo on them! Jerseys will be judged as you are riding Saturday.

HIGHEST PLEDGE AVERAGE TEAMSThe top five teams with the highest pledge average will be recognized at the post-event celebration.

HIGHEST FUNDRAISING TEAMSThe top ten fundraising teams will be recognized at the post-event celebration.

HIGHEST PERCENTAGE OF JEWELRY BOOMERANG TEAM MEMBERSThe team with the highest percentage of team members qualifying as Jewelry Boomerang status by August 31, 2014 will be recognized at the Saturday night party.

BIG WHEEL AWARDThe team with the most members pre-registered by August 31, 2014 will add their name to this traveling award.

6

ACCOMMODATIONSHotels are very limited, so as New Bern hotels fill, we suggest booking rooms in Morehead City, Havelock, and Kinston, only 30 minutes away from the start/finish line. Outdoor camping is available at Union Point Park (start line), and indoor camping is available at Twin Rivers YMCA. View more details on our website.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTSAll scheduled events for Friday September 5, 2014 through Sunday September 7, 2014 are located at www.bikemsnewbern.org.

ENTERTAINMENT FOR THE KIDSMini Bike MS is designed for kids of all ages! New Bern Parks & Recreation will host this event where kids can bring their bikes, tricycles, big wheels, and helmets to ride around Union Point Park after the official start of Saturdays ride. After the Mini Bike MS, kids will enjoy crafts, games, and other fun activities.

BIKE INSPECTIONSAlthough we do not require inspections, we strongly encourage you to be sure your bike is safe. Any of our participating bike shops (listed on web) will fully inspect your bike and provide you with an inspection sticker. If you encounter mechanical problems on the route and you have your sticker displayed, you will only be charged for parts. Otherwise, you will be charged for both parts and labor.

EVENTDETAILS

DATESaturday, September 6 through Sunday, September 7, 2014

LOCATIONUNION POINT PARK, NEW BERN, NCThis historic, waterfront town is the second oldest town in North Carolina and is situated where the Trent and Neuse Rivers meet. There are over 150 historic landmarks including the magnificent Tryon Palace, the birthplace of Pepsi, and a 157,000 acre national forest. You and your family will be sure to enjoy the relaxed, friendly personality of this charming town. For more information about New Bern, please visit www.visitnewbern.com.

ROUTE DETAILS The route will be clearly marked with directional signs and arrows. You can pick up cue sheets in the Convention Center during the Friday Night Expo or in Union Point Park beside the start. You will also be able to download the route this Summer.

Distance OptionsSaturday Routes - 25, 50, 75, and 100 MilesSunday Routes - 25, 50, 75, and 100 Miles

SUPPORT ON THE ROUTERest stops are located every 10-15 miles. Rest stops are fully stocked and staffed by volunteers offering water, Gatorade, snacks, and fruit. Each location also hosts a medic, bike mechanic, and restroom facilities. Support and Gear (SAG) vehicles will be patrolling all routes to offer assistance to cyclists who are fatigued, having mechanical troubles, or just need a short break from riding. If you need assistance, pull a safe distance off the road and give a thumbs down sign when the SAG approaches.

FIVE ESSENTIAL INGREDIENTS FOR A SUCCESSFUL RIDETRAININGBe prepared to ride the distance you choose. Checkout our Summer Schedule

FUNDRAISINGRaise at least $300 toward a world free of MS to be eligible to ride. This does not include your registration fee.

SAFETY Get your gear checked by a local bike shop before riding long distances. Always be sure your equipment is safe.

MONEY TURN-INMail your donations to the Raleigh office at 3101 Industrial Drive Suite 210, Raleigh, NC 27609. Please include your name and Historic New Bern with your donations. Or, you can turn in donations at Check-in at the event.

FUN Have fun and enjoy the ride!

5