Time to Rally the Troops

If you ride a bike in Wisconsin, then you owe it to yourself to get to Madison April 27 and 28 for the first-ever Wisconsin Bicycle Summit. As a member of the cycling community, it is extremely important that you participate in this event and that you encourage every cyclist you know to do the same.

"Forward" is Wisconsin's state motto. It describes Wisconsin's continuous drive to be a national leader. On April 27 and 28, Forward is where the Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin plans to take the state's cyclists. Our goal is to lay the foundation for making Wisconsin one of the world's greatest places to be on a bike. Creating and maintaining a safe and friendly atmosphere for cycling will help make Wisconsin even more sustainable and economically diverse.

As you are aware, the bicycle is a “silver bullet” cure for many of today’s societal ills. Increasing trips made by bicycle decreases obesity, decreases individuals’ carbon footprint and decreases dependence on oil. It’s also fun. People need to have the freedom to bicycle for transportation, fitness or recreation and to do so safely and without harassment.

Lawmakers and policymakers play a significant role in determining the quality of bicycling in the state. The 2009 Summit is our opportunity to share best practices, network with fellow bicycle advocates, retailers and enthusiasts, and to lobby our State Legislators at the capitol.

On Monday April 27 we will gather at the Madison Concourse Hotel to lay the groundwork for establishing Wisconsin as one of the world's greatest places to be on a bike. Please join us in sharing this vision and connecting and networking with cycling leaders from across Wisconsin. On Tuesday morning we will all gather together to discuss bicyclist's most urgent legislative needs and then continue on to the capitol to meet with our own legislators.

If you are unable to attend both days of the summit please consider attending either the Monday or Tuesday events. There is strength in numbers and we need to hear your voice. If you know anybody else who might be interested in supporting this cause, please share this information with them.

For more information and to register, please visit the Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin’s website at www.bfw.org.