Bike to Work news roundup

Bicyclists generally aren't featured in the news that often, unless one of us is killed on the road, excels at the Tour de France, or we arouse somnolent columnists by riding en masse. May is National Bike Month, which each year generates a plethora of favorable coverage for bicycling. This year has been no exception. Here's a sampling.

From the News Tribune (LaSalle, IL), 05.04.07:

Out for a Spin
Dr. Jon Pritchett commutes 20 miles from Peru to his job in Mendota not unlike many Illinois Valley residents — but he does it on two wheels. "It takes a little bit of planning, but I think it is a good way to start your day and a good way to end your day," Pritchett said. (Read more.)

This article makes a important point: Beginning bike commuters should seek less traffic-intensive side streets or back roads. Don't think like a driver.

From The Olympian (Olympia, WA), 05.04.07:

Park the car—ride the bike to work
South Sound’s annual Bicycle Commuter Contest is coming of age, growing immensely in popularity and participation. This is the 20th year of the contest, which encourages commuters to get out of their single-occupancy vehicle and onto the seat of a bicycle during the month of May. (Read more.)

From The Chattanoogan (Tennessee), 05.03.07:

Bike2Work Begins Friday
Bike Chattanooga officials stated, "Riding a bike can improve health, reduce air pollution and traffic congestion and save money. Commuting just one day a week could reduce gas and parking costs by 20 percent." (Read more.)

From The Honolulu Advertiser, 05.01.07:

51st annual National Bike Month starts rolling today
The City and County of Honolulu are teaming up with the Hawaii Bicycling League and local businesses to observe the 51st annual National Bike Month. (Mayor Mufi) Hannemann said, "Bicycling is an efficient mode of transportation that helps reduce traffic congestion and environmental pollution. More bicycles and fewer cars will improve the quality of living in Hawai'i; each bike means one less car. It's also a healthy form of exercise." He urged motorists to be courteous to bicyclists and "Share the Road." (Read more.)

From WKBT-TV (La Crosse, Wisconsin), 05.01.07:

Sparta Celebrates Biking Entire Month Of May
Sparta, "The Bicycling Capital of America", is hosting 31 days of contests, clinics, parades, and fun for BikeSparta 07. It's all part of a celebration of biking, as well as the 40th Anniversary of the Elroy-Sparta Bike Trail. "We are excited about the opportunity to showcase all that Sparta, the 'Bicycling Capital of America,' has to offer to cyclists," said Sharon Folcey, Executive Director of the Sparta Area Chamber of Commerce. "People of all ages and fitness levels will be able to enjoy some wonderful bicycling events this May." (Read more. Includes video link.)

Visit: Commuting by Cycling, St. Petersberg Times, 04.30.07
Visit: Bike Town: Working to develop paths and roads to a healthier lifestyle, Spartanburg, South Carolina, 04.30.07
Visit: Bike to Work Month, League of American Bicyclists
Visit: Bay Area Bike to Work
Visit: Paul Dorn's Bike Commuting Tips