If Wilmington, NC can do it... so can we

This is a call to... erm... bikes! We are planning the first Critical Mass assembly in Little Rock, Ark.
For those not familiar with the cause, Critical Mass is a bike ride (some call it a protest) on our city streets. It's part eco-friendly and part eco-activism. Share the road is the motto! For info on what Critical Mass is all about: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Critical_mass

Little Rock does have a great bike trail, the Arkansas River Trail and a few bike routes there are many places that do not have dedicated bike paths.

Recently Wilmington, NC, population 100k, held a Critical Mass and over 100 people showed up for the event. 107 Cyclists Ride in Critical Mass Bike Ride in Wilmington

Little Rock has many bicyclists and I believe we can top that number. We are proposing to have our own Critical Mass the last Friday of every month starting August 29th @ 6pm. There is a tentative meetup at the Riverfront Amphitheater and a proposed twin city path starting in Little Rock and going into North Little Rock.

If you would like to participate we just ask that you follow the rules:

1. Yield to all emergency vehicles such as police cars, fire trucks, and ambulances.

2. Be aware of the type of ride. If riding in procession with a police escort blocking side traffic for the mass, you may pass through lights and stop signs. If riding without an escort, obey all stop signs, stop lights, and other rules of the road. When in doubt, obey the usual rules of the road.

3. Do not antagonize pedestrians or motorists, either verbally or physically. If a motorist is confronting you, do not escalate the situation. Speak softly and calmly, and explain that this is a peaceful protest.

4. Some accidents and arguments will happen. Don't join in confrontations with others. Try to defuse tension whenever possible.

5. Do not block any cars that in turn, block the mass. Letting these cars pass will lead to a smoother, safer ride. Please let trapped pedestrians pass. You might help them by escorting them across the road.

6. Talk to drivers. Explain why you participate in Critical Mass, and let them know others cycle for many reasons: to bring attention to everyday transportation problems such as steadily increasing congestion, to promote cycling and mass transit, to improve the environment, and for fun.

7. If you witness a crime by another rider or motorist, notify the police so they may deal with it accordingly.

8. Don't be a hero. You are not invincible, and an angry motorist in a car creates a dangerous situation for everyone.

9. Relax and enjoy the ride.

10. Encourage other riders to do the same.

We are also looking for volunteers to help us come up with some art/signs and people to pass out flyers and material. We do not need your donations! This is simply a ride through the city.

Feel free to contact us @ criticalmasslr-at-gmail.com ... we can shoot some ideas together over a bike ride :)