ALTERNATE TRANSPORTATION
Several ongoing events and activists groups are spearheading bicyclists’ rights and advocacy in our area. Critical Mass is a monthly bicycle ride through cities across the world to celebrate and defend cyclists’ rights to the road. There are no leaders of Critical Mass; it’s just a monthly event for a community to come together for the sake of enjoying the ride. Rides are a different size and vibe in every city – some are quiet and peaceful and others can be disruptive, confrontational and outright annoying for motorists. Either way, it’s a tactful, non-violent form of protest and a way to remind drivers to share the road. Watch a video of Los Angeles’ critical mass here.
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Similarily, our friends at the Action Sports Environmental Coalition (A.S.E.C.) have sponsored R.A.D. – Roll Anything Day. On October 10, skateboarders, bikers and other action sports enthusiasts unite and encourage others to “roll anything” and leave their cars at home. They’re inviting the nation to sign up and become part of the challenge in their local communities on this day dedicated to the action sports lifestyle and the use of non-motorized transportation. View the commercial here.
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One ambitious California-based group, the National Bicycle Greenway envisions a nation interconnected by bike paths and trails. They’re implementing several programs in bikeway and trail identification, bikeway infrastructure, education, sponsorships and grant applications in order to make their dream a reality. NBG organizes cross-country relay rides to raise awareness and an NBG Scout Program where volunteers chart and map safe routes, adding to their national web of trails and bikeways. For more information click here.
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Livity encourages these initiatives to inspire others to decrease their dependence on cars and fuel, get some exercise and enjoy the ride.