May 28, 2020
Hello,
It has been a crazy two and a half months since everything closed in March. This time has been uncertain and trying time for all of us. I wish good health and safety for each of you.
With the Governor’s announcement that Illinois will move into Phase 3 (Recover) in the Restore Illinois Plan as of Friday, May 29 we look forward to group riding again. In Phase 3 there are two important points to note that may allow us to once again move toward sponsored group riding: 1) “Gatherings: All gatherings of 10 people or fewer are allowed with this limit subject to change based on latest data & guidance,” and 2) “Outdoor recreation: State parks open; Activities permitted in groups of 10 or fewer with social distancing.”
The Springfield Bicycle Club (SBC) Board is listening to our government officials and health professionals during this time. This link from USA Cycling (https://www.usacycling.org/event-organizer/covid-19-event-resources) has several resources that might help you think about how you ride with others during Illinois’ Phase 3. The three sections I find particularly helpful include: Group Ride Guidance, Group Ride Scenarios, and Club & Team Advice.
In accordance with the Governor’s entire Plan (phases 1 through 4) the SBC recommends wearing a face mask if strict adherence to social distancing guidelines is not possible. Six feet may not be sufficient social distancing when cycling due to factors such as speed, weather, and proximity to others. We suggest riding side by side or more than 20 feet behind. The farther away the better, but with a mask and low risk riding partners, distances of 20 feet are likely safe.
The SBC encourages people to be outside riding bikes either solo, with those in your immediate family, or in small groups. However, during this time, no SBC sponsored group rides will be scheduled.
The SBC Board wants club members to feel connected to the cycling community during this time and we are planning several unique and fun opportunities for you. We hope that all cyclists will take advantage of these events. Watch your email, the SBC website (www.spfldcycling.org) or Facebook (Springfield Bicycle Club, Springfield IL) for more information in the coming weeks.
The SBC is a non-profit organization and as such during this uncertain time our finances have been hit especially hard. The SBC advocates for local bicycling facilities and infrastructure, such as bike paths and lanes and public bike repair stands; a local bicycle map; bicycle-friendly activities such as commuting events and bicycle safety education for children; and provides charitable donations to other like-minded charities, such as the state’s premier bicycling advocacy group, Ride Illinois. The Club was instrumental in the 2018 designation of the City of Springfield as a bronze-level bicycle friendly community by the League of American Bicyclists. So, I encourage you to keep your membership status current. If you’re not a member, or if your membership has expired go to https://www.spfldcycling.org/content.aspx?page_id=9&club_id=300348. There you can sign up, renew your membership, or encourage others to sign up.
Would you consider being generous with the SBC during this time? Maybe you could take your membership to the next level. For example, if you already hold a basic family membership ($25) consider joining (or renewing) at the family contributing level ($30). If you would like to contribute other amounts, please contact me at the email below.
If you have questions about your membership status please contact Ted Sunder at secretary@spfldcycling.org. He is ready to check your membership status, guide you in obtaining membership, or assist with renewal.
Be safe. Be well. Wave when you see me ride by.
Troy Gilmore
SBC Acting President
vp@spfldcycling.org
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