Bridgette DeShields, Santa Rosa Cycling Club, Speaks to Sunrise
Our speaker for Thursday, January 24, was Bridgette DeShields, President of the Santa Rosa Cycling Club (SRCC). Bridgette gave us a dynamic overview of SRCC, what it does, what it stands for, and how it helps shape our community. The Club has 1,500 members and is a “huge social group.” The Club has various riding categories; from slow to very fast, so members can always ride with their peer group. The Club provides programs for ride leaders, general bicycle safety, and advocates helping its members become ambassadors on the road. It is also a 501(c)(4), a tax-exempt social welfare organization. In addition to its riding operations, the Club takes an active role in the community. In the past 10 years the Club has donated $350,000 for the support of community projects. Its major fundraiser is “Wine Country Century,” which is set for May 4, 2019 (hint - they need lots of volunteers!). SRCC’s projects have included work with the Sonoma County Regional Parks, the Southeast Greenway, the Sonoma Valley Trail, the SMART trail, and has an important alliance with the Sonoma County Bicycle Coalition. Great job Bridgette, you packed a ton of information into your 25 minutes, and we appreciate it. Remember, “ride to eat and eat to ride!”
