Author: Tim Mooney

August 7, 2024

Student Advocacy

In this episode of the podcast, we explore the importance of student advocacy and voting. Additionally, we discuss how 501(c)(3) organizations can engage in advocacy efforts during election season. Joining us today is Ally, our Bolder Advocacy legal intern, to answer questions about the impact of student advocacy on campus.

Hosts:

Susan Finkle Sourlis (Attorney)

Monika Graham (Attorney)

Alexandra Roseberry (Intern)

On-Campus Advocacy Culture
- On-Campus Activities
- Voter Laws and Students
- Getting Involved With Advocacy as a Student
How Nonprofits Can Participate in Nonpartisan Voting Education
- Voter Registration Programs
- Encouraging Voting
- Polling Information
How 501(c)(3)s Can Engage During Election Season
- Issue Advocacy
- Candidate Education
- Voter Education
- Voter Engagement
- Ballot Measures
- Private Foundations
Student Organizations and Youth Groups
- Rhizome
- Youth on Root

Resources:

Rules of the Game – https://afj.org/resource/the-rules-of-the-game-a-guide-to-election-related-activities-for-501c3-organizations/
Our guidelines for most of the 50 states on voter outreach and voter registration activities – https://afj.org/bolder-advocacy/practical-guidance-nonprofit-voter-assistance-series/
Project Grant Rule
ACLU KYR – https://www.aclu.org/know-your-rights
https://www.nonprofitvote.org/get-registered-to-vote/
https://www.lawyerscommittee.org/
Rhizome – https://www.werhize.org/
Youth on Root – https://www.youthonroot.org/

August 5, 2024

Best of Pedalshift 161: Stealth Camping Tips

Stealth camping lets bike tourists keep costs down and ride more miles per day… but is it right for you? On this episode, we cover stealth camping upsides, downsides, tips, philosophies, risks, and some thoughts on the number one question… what to do if you get caught! Originally podcast April 19, 2019.

Best of Pedalshift 161: Stealth Camping Tips

The post Best of Pedalshift 161: Stealth Camping Tips appeared first on Pedalshift.

July 25, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 371: Oregon Coast Remix – Part 2

After a relaxing first night in camp, it was time to put in some real mileage over some real terrain. Fog and cool weather beckoned, but would it remain? And would our next new-to-us campsite with “beach” in its name live up to expectations?

The Pedalshift Project 371: Oregon Coast Remix - Part 2

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Oregon Coast Remix – Part 2

Morning in Camp

• Coffee experiment failure: James’ protein powder mishap.

• Chilly morning with heavy winds.

• Plans for the day: ride to Newport and Beachside.

Starting the Ride

•Update from Highway 101 near Depot Bay: favorable tailwinds.

•Tim’s new breakfast strategy: snacking on shredded wheat minis.

•Weather and clothing conditions: cool, foggy, perfect for cycling.

First Break

•Brief stop south of Lincoln Beach.

•Positive progress: good pace and energy levels.

•Hydration strategy with electrolyte juice.

Depot Bay Stop

•Stopping for coffee and a treat at Pirate Coffee Company.

•Reflections on past experiences and current ride satisfaction.

Cape Foulweather Climb

•Detailed description of the back road climb on Cape Foulweather.

•Scenic views and serene atmosphere.

•Comparison to previous rides and current weather benefits.

Lunch in Newport

•Meeting James for lunch in Newport.

•Longer than usual break, reflections on its impact.

•Post-lunch ride strategy and sunscreen mishap.

Riding to Waldport

•Update on the ride to Waldport after lunch.

•Grocery run and preparations for the evening.

•Anticipation for Beachside State Recreational Area.

Arrival at Beachside State Recreational Area

•Initial impressions of the campground: close beach access, sandy terrain.

•Comparisons to previous night’s campsite.

•Reflections on the ride and overall experience.

Evening Reflections

•Enjoying the evening with beverages.

•Discussion on the ride and campsite rating.

Statistics

Miles biked 50

Protein powder mishaps 1

Other cyclists in camp 0

Hikers in camp 5

Flats 0

As always we like to close out the show with a special shoutout to the Pedalshift Society! Because of support from listeners like you, Pedalshift is a weekly bicycle touring podcast with a global community, expanding into live shows and covering new tours like this summer’s upcoming bike tour! If you like what you hear, you can support the show for 5 bucks, 2 bucks or even a buck a month. And there’s one-shot and annual options if you’re not into the small monthly thing. Check it all out at pedalshift.net/society.

Kimberly Wilson
Caleb Jenkinson
Cameron Lien
Andrew MacGregor
Michael Hart
Keith Nagel
Brock Dittus
Thomas Skadow
Marco Lo
Terrance Manson
Harry Telgadas
Chris Barron
Mark Van Raam
Brad Hipwell
Mr. T
Nathan Poulton
Stephen Dickerson
Vince LoGreco
Cody Floerchinger
Tom Benenati
Greg Braithwaite
Sandy Pizzio
Jeff Muster
Seth Pollack
Joseph Quinn
Drue Porter
Byron Paterson
Joachim Raber
Ray Jackson
Jeff Frey
Kenny Mikey
Lisa Hart
John Denkler
Steve Hankel
Miguel Quinones
Alejandro Avilés-Reyes
Keith Spangler
Greg Towner
Dan Gebhart, RIP
Jody Dzuranin
Lucas Barwick
Michael Baker
Brian Bechtol
Reinhart Bigl
Greg Middlemis
Connie Moore
William Gothmann
Brian Benton
Joan Churchill
Mike Bender
Rick Weinberg
Billy Crafton
Gary Matushak
Greg L’Etoile-Lopes
James Sloan
Jonathan Dillard
John Funk
Tom Bilcze
Ronald Piroli
Dave Roll
Brian Hafner
Misha LeBlanc
Ari Messinger
David Gratke
Todd Groesbeck
Wally Estrella
Sue Reinert
John Leko
Stephen Granata
Phillip Mueller
Robert Lackey
Dominic Carol
Jacqi McCulloch
John Hickman
Carl Presseault
David Neves
Patty Louise
Terry Fitzgerald
Peter Steinmetz
Timothy Fitzpatrick
Michael Liszewski
Hank O’Donnell
David Zanoni
David Weil
Matthew Sponseller
Chad Reno
Spartan Dale
Carolyn Ferguson
Peggy Littlefield
Lauren Allansmith
Eric Burns
Thomas Pearl
Darrin McKibben
Richard Stewart
Dave Fletcher
Jack Smith
Luke Parkinson
Ryan Patterson
Cyrus Farivar
John Gardiner
Sam Scruggs

Music

You’ve been hearing about Jason Kent and his music for many fine episodes. Jason has a new solo album available NOW. Go listen to COMMON TONGUES wherever cool music is available!

The post The Pedalshift Project 371: Oregon Coast Remix – Part 2 appeared first on Pedalshift.

July 18, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 370: Oregon Coast Remix – Part 1

A big day of travel from DC to Oregon and then on to the coast… it’s not hassle-free, but the coast and its cooler temperatures await for a grand adventure celebrating ten years of the pod. But wait… who’s that in Lincoln City?

The Pedalshift Project 370: Oregon Coast Remix - Part 1

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Oregon Coast Remix – Part 1

Introduction

•Opening remarks from Tim in Washington D.C.

•Packing and preparation challenges.

•Importance of cable run for bike handlebars.

Travel Troubles and Adjustments

•Delayed flight and rebooking with Alaska Airlines.

•Adjusted travel plans leading to an early morning departure.

•Personal updates: spending extra night with family and dealing with remote family health issues.

The Journey Begins

•Revealing Mysterious James as a trip companion.

•Anticipation for the 10th-anniversary trip of the podcast.

•Details of the bike setup and packing.

•Weather conditions and impact on travel.

Flight to Portland

•Flight experience: busy airport and smooth connections.

•Challenges with TSA and bike packing.

•Arriving in Portland and rebuilding the bike.

Portland to Tillamook

•Riding through Portland to brother’s place.

•Adjusting the bike setup.

•Detailed plans for the next day’s travel to the coast.

•Reflections on using local transit systems.

Arrival in Tillamook

•Experience at Tillamook Safeway.

•Bus journey details and using transit apps.

•Mysterious James’s progress on the coast.

Lincoln City Campground

•Campground features and setup.

•Ratings and comparisons of the camping experience.

•Discussion on the evolution of cycling tourism post-COVID.

Wrapping Up

•Final thoughts on the day’s travel and setup.

•Looking forward to the ride through Newport to Beachside State Park.

Statistics

Miles Biked 2.5

Bike tourists in camp 0

Wine-based Choclotinis purchased 2

Mysterious Jameses encountered 1

Flats 0

Music

You’ve been hearing about Jason Kent and his music for many fine episodes. Jason has a new solo album available NOW. Go listen to COMMON TONGUES wherever cool music is available!

The post The Pedalshift Project 370: Oregon Coast Remix – Part 1 appeared first on Pedalshift.

July 11, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 369: Oregon Coast Remix Preview

Ten years ago, I embarked on one of my biggest adventures… cycling the entire Pacific Coast, from border to border. Since then, I’ve revisited sections of that ride time and again. And to be honest, I have some habits… tried and true places to camp and eat and even throw back a few. So to celebrate ten years of the pod, the Oregon Coast makes a lot of sense. But celebrating the past sometimes means looking forward, so maybe we shake it up…. remix the ride. On this episode, a preview of the tenth anniversary ride, the Oregon Coast Remix.

The Pedalshift Project 369: Oregon Coast Remix Preview

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Subscribe/Follow The Pedalshift Project:
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Oregon Coast Remix Preview

The ride

Lincoln City – Crescent City

A couple of fast forwards (PDX-LC, Port Orford-Brookings)

Reasonable mileage

The remix – new to me campsites each night (except the last one – more in a moment)

Pros – even though this a familiar ride, the tick tock of it isn’t so it’s going to be totally different. New challenges, new rhythms. Ability to spend time in the coastal towns differently. No Sunset Bay!

Cons – I’ll miss out on some classic things like South Beach SP. Would have liked more time. Not in proper bike shape for the ride?

Unknowns – there are h/b campgrounds, but are they any good?

Ride to Union Station, Portland

Bus to Tillamook

Ride to Pacific City?

Bus to Lincoln City

Ride hits so many new h/b campgrounds

Final night… wanted to do Cape Blanco, but in retrospect it’s just too much to get up there (steep and narrow road). Luckily, Humbug Mountain is close enough to Port Orford to bike back to grab the bus. Only campsite I’ll stay at that’s not new to me (barring disaster/change in plans)

Fast forward Port Orford to Brookings and then another bus to Crescent City airport for my car (puke avoidance tour 2024)

The gear

The Safari – same bike (well same frame and a few of the OG components) as the one that road the coast in 2014

Back from the shop and hopefully riding perfectly

Fully loaded, even bringing a stove

Flying with the Dogsbody bag (which has definitely paid for itself at this point)

Two rear panniers

Fork bags, but using the eVent bags instead of those skinny bags that came with them

Will be the closest to a “4 pannier” setup I’ve ever done

Handlebar roll (new bag)

Lots of capacity, but will try to keep amount of gear and clothing to a minimum. May look heavier than it is?

The challenges

Not in the best shape

My usual stops won’t make sense so I’ll be improvising a bit

The upsides

Brand new campgrounds – new sights to see and new perspectives of the coast

Different rhythm to the ride makes it closer to new

I’m in this for fun, not breaking speed records… hoping to stop at a few cool places I usually pass by

Might have some surprises. It’s the ten year anniversary adventure, after all!

Tour Journals start… next week!

Music

You’ve been hearing about Jason Kent and his music for many fine episodes. Jason has a new solo album available NOW. Go listen to COMMON TONGUES wherever cool music is available!

The post The Pedalshift Project 369: Oregon Coast Remix Preview appeared first on Pedalshift.

July 10, 2024

Politically Motivated Attacks

Political attacks on nonprofit organizations can come in many forms, including legal challenges or public smear campaigns. Given the current political climate, organizations that engage in policy reform and election season advocacy are coming under increased scrutiny. As a result, it is crucial to be proactive and develop a comprehensive strategy to safeguard your organization’s reputation and operations. On this episode, we will discuss how your organization can ready itself in advance of potential politically motivated attacks.

Lawyers for this Episode

Monika Graham

Susan Finkel-Sourlis

Natalie Ossenfort

Threats Directed at Nonprofit Organizations:

Attempting to Criminalize Social Services

Texas Attorney General launched investigation of an organization that provides services to the immigrant community

3 Activists in Georgia were arrested after their organization’s charitable bail fund posted bond for individuals who protested against Atlanta’s “Cop City.”

Congress Conducting Increased Investigations of Nonprofit Organizations

Ways and Means Committee issued Request for Information (RFI) asking responders to identify groups they believe are using voter registration and education to sway the outcome of candidate elections

In May 2024, House Oversight and Accountability Committee Chairman James Comer and Committee on Education and the Workforce Chairwoman Virginia Foxx launched an investigation into the funding sources of about 20 organizations that have funded recent anti-Israel demonstrations across U.S. college campuses

Using Repressive Tactics to Discourage Public Participation

3 organizers arrested and charged with a misdemeanor obstruction of highway or other passageway after the peacefully marched in protest of a confederate monument

79 people arrested and charged with criminal trespass for participating in a protest at the University of Texas

Incorrect or purposely distributing misinformation around elections.

Other threats include organizations being covertly contacted by those who want to catch them “red-handed” in an illegal act, doxxing, and more!

Tips for Preparation:

Adopt Clear Organizational Policies:

Organizations should adopt policies regarding nonprofit activities, communications, and responses to political issues.

Ensure that all staff and board members are trained and aware of these policies, and maintain copies of signed policies for your records.

It is a best practice to include these policies in your employee handbook and to require signature during employee onboarding.

If you don’t already have policies in place, consider their adoption.

Election season policy to establish expectations for staff when acting on behalf of the organization vs. in their individual capacity

Social Media Policy, including information on how to maintain boundaries between work-related and personal use of social media

Prepare Staff and Volunteers:

Review and understand the rules for engaging in advocacy, including lobbying and election season advocacy. This should include a review of local, state, and federal laws that may apply to your organization’s activities.

Schedule training for your team so that everyone is on the same page and understands how to properly track, report, and engage in important public policy and election-related activities.

If training is not an option, encourage your staff to review nonprofit advocacy rules on their own time (see resource suggestions below).

Train staff on how to deal with questions.

Don’t let anyone pressure you to say something you don’t want to state.

Let your staff know that it is always better to report any suspicious activity, and identify who staff should notify if they suspect that something is awry.

Have a legal response plan in place that designates legal counsel to address potential challenges swiftly and an organizational leader, who is authorized to respond to accusations made against your nonprofit.

Consider requiring staff to participate in IT trainings designed to increase their awareness of potential online threats.

Keep Good Records & Remember to Report:

Keep accurate and complete records, and ensure your filings are in order.

Nonprofits should carefully track their lobbying, ballot measure advocacy, and other projects to comply with lobbying limits and ensure accurate reporting to the IRS and relevant state and local authorities.

Remember to timely and accurately file any required lobbying disclosure reports, campaign finance (e.g. ballot measure) reports, and your organization’s annual exempt organization return (990).

Check out our resource entitled “Keeping Track” to make sure staff are trained to properly track their time.

If you are attacked, stay calm.

Reassure board members, staff, volunteers, and supporters that you are diligently gathering the facts.

Share information with your coalition partners and allies so they are not caught off-guard and can prepare for questions that may arise.

Go back to your response plan, and put it into action.

Resources

Tips for Nonprofits: Preparing for the Possibility of a Politically Motivated Attack

Being a Player: A Guide to the Lobbying Regulations for Advocacy Charities

Rules of the Game: A Guide to Election Related Activities for 501(c)(3) Organizations

The Connection: Strategies for Creating and Operating 501(c)(3)s, 501(c)(4)s, and Political Organizations

Keeping Track: Guide to Recordkeeping for Advocacy Charities

July 4, 2024

Best of Pedalshift 263: Guide to the C&O – Section by Section

I’ve taken listeners on a bunch of rides on the C&O (including the current one!), so it’s worth revisiting my guide to riding it. In the second of two parts, we go section by section from DC to Cumberland. It’s an audio guide to cycling the C&O Canal towpath whether you’re a first timer of a full on expert. Originally podcast November 18, 2021.

Best of Pedalshift 263: Guide to the C&O – Section by Section

The post Best of Pedalshift 263: Guide to the C&O – Section by Section appeared first on Pedalshift.

June 26, 2024

Election Detective

On this episode, we dive into the fundamentals of campaign finance reporting, exploring the essentials of what is included in these reports and uncovering valuable insights they provide. From contributions and expenditures to reporting requirements and deadlines, we break down the intricacies of campaign finance reports to empower you with the knowledge needed to navigate and comprehend campaign finance reports.

Attorneys

Monika Graham

Susan Finkle-Sourlis

Victor Rivera Labiosa

Shownotes

– Types of Campaign Finance Reports

– Federal perspective from the FEC (Federal Elections Commission)

– Similarities in state-level reporting

– Reporting requirements for federal candidates and campaigns

– Itemized contributions and reporting over $200 contributions

– Contents of Campaign Finance Reports

– Reporting contributions and expenditures

– Itemized details for contributors (name, address, employer, occupation)

– Types of expenditures (operating expenses, ads, mail pieces)

– Requirement for specifying the purpose of expenditures

– Insights from Campaign Finance Reports

– Identifying contributors and their occupations

– Insights into industry and issue-based PAC contributions

– Understanding compliance with reporting rules

– Reporting Deadlines and Requirements

– Quarterly and monthly filing options

– Late contribution and expenditure reports

– Pre-election reports (pre-primary and pre-general)

– Benefits of Reporting Monthly vs. Quarterly

– Differences in reporting frequency based on organization size and strategy

– Flexibility to change filing frequency each election cycle

– Disclaimer Requirements for Communications

– Purpose of disclaimers in public communications

– Requirements for printed and broadcast ads

– Candidate stand-by-your-ad statements in broadcast ads

Resources

The Rules of the Game

Election checklist

Practical guidance: Non-profit voter assistance series

FEC.gov

June 20, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 367: C&O But Slow – Part 4

After a rejuvenating zero day to avoid the storms, I had one more day of road riding to catch my train. A familiar route, but not exactly one with mindfulness paid to bikes. Would I catch the train home?

The Pedalshift Project 367: C&O But Slow - Part 4

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Celebrate 10 Years of Pedalshift

Quick housekeeping if you missed last episode’s live show news… I’m off to Oregon for the 10th anniversary tour: Oregon Coast Remixed! We’ll pivot right into that as soon as we wrap up the C&O But Slow over the next few weeks, so stay tuned.
Also another shout to Lael Wilcox’s pod… her adventure around the world continues so make sure you follow along Lael Rides Around the World wherever you get this pod. Unless you get it off my website, in which case go google hers

C&O But Slow – Part 4

Introduction

Good morning from the cabin. Discussion about the day’s ride and weather conditions.
Reflection on the decision to take a zero day due to bad weather.

Travel Plans and Preparations

Route description: predominantly downhill, then uphill, and flat sections.
Mention of carrying less load compared to previous rides.
Discussion on the necessity of taking the garbage to remote bins.
Weather conditions: cold, layering up, and safety measures with lighting on the bike.
Highlighting areas of exposure to highways and the importance of planning the ride to avoid rush.

On the Road Experiences

Initial thoughts after starting the ride and adjusting clothing layers.
Navigating roads and using Google Maps for routing, challenges with algorithm recommendations.
Encounter with the lowest elevation point near Back Creek and the difficulties with uphill rides.
Discussion about the upcoming route, including passing the county landfill and Ridge Road’s rollercoaster-like terrain.

Mid-Ride Reflections

Break to consume snacks and hydrate, reflection on time management for the ride.
Encounter with local traffic and the need for careful navigation on Ridge Road.
Challenges with the bike’s mid gears and potential need for maintenance.

Final Leg of the Journey

Detailed description of the last few miles and final crossing of Highway 9.
Observations on new constructions and reflections on the local area’s development.
Final thoughts on the ride, considering an e-bike for future trips for efficiency.
Nearing the train station, managing time well and cooling down after the ride.

Arrival at Martinsburg Train Station

Reflection on the ease of the final stretch and the efficiency of the route taken.
Thoughts on Martinsburg’s potential and current state, including commuter resources.
Preparing for the train ride back, discussion on local transit options and their effectiveness.

Return to DC

Arrival in DC, reflection on the overall trip and its unexpected developments.
Observations on local cycling culture and the changes seen in the area.
Mention of upcoming episodes and future plans for spring and summer.

Statistics

Miles biked 20.1
Trains taken 1
Bars eaten 2
Celebratory train beers 1
Flats 0

Music

You’ve been hearing about Jason Kent and his music for many fine episodes. Jason has a new solo album available NOW. Go listen to COMMON TONGUES wherever cool music is available!

The post The Pedalshift Project 367: C&O But Slow – Part 4 appeared first on Pedalshift.

June 13, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 366: Ten Years of Pedalshift [Live!]

June 8th, 2014 was the very first episode of The Pedalshift Project, and since then we’ve gone on quite the journey, mostly by bike. On this live episode, we got a bunch of listeners together to chat about highlights from the last ten years, the evolution of the show, and the reveal of the Tenth Anniversary Tour this summer. Recorded live June 8, 2024.

The Pedalshift Project 366: Ten Years of Pedalshift [Live!]

Hey it’s the direct download link for The Pedalshift Project 366: Ten Years of Pedalshift [Live!].

Subscribe/Follow The Pedalshift Project:
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Watch the show

Top Ten Moments

Honorable Mention Ten

Top ten

10. Social Distancing on the C&O (200-203) – April 2020)

9. Katy Trail (118-126 May-June 2018)

8. eBikes with Biking Brian (345 Nov 30, 2023)

7. First Brompton tour in CA (048 – April 28, 2016)

6. Shifty the Elf makes his first appearance on the very first Holiday Spectacular (Pedalshift 038 – December 24, 2015)

5. First Biking to Disney World (277 – March 24, 2022)

4. DC to Cincinnati (165-169 – May-June 2019)

3. The 2020 Bike Touring Draft feat. Sprocket (207 – June 11, 2020)

2. The Mysterious James three pack (190-192 – January 2020)

1. The Pacific Coast (005, 006, 010 – 2014)

Summer 10th Anniversary Tour Reveal

Oregon Coast Remix

Lincoln City to Crescent City
Classic touring bike (same one I used 10 years ago for the full coast)
All new campsites (mostly)
About a week of riding and no barfing on busses to Medford this time
Tour preview will be hitting the pod in a few weeks!

Music

You’ve been hearing about Jason Kent and his music for many fine episodes. Jason has a new solo album available NOW. Go listen to COMMON TONGUES wherever cool music is available!

The post The Pedalshift Project 366: Ten Years of Pedalshift [Live!] appeared first on Pedalshift.