Bicycle Summit, appreciation night promote outdoor lifestyles

Ozark Greenways, Ozarks Transportation Organization and Advocacy Committee of Springbike Bicycle Club are presenting the first Springfield Area Bicycle Summit 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Friday. Leaders will look at promoting bicycling through public policy, community involvement and agency partnerships, according to a news release.

Ozark Greenways also is holding its 17th annual Membership Appreciation Night 6–8 tonight at Springfield Conservation Nature Center, The event is free and open to the public; no registration is required.

The evening will begin with social time and appetizers, followed by a board election and awards, a question-and-answer session and a speech by local cycling advocate Larry O’Reilly. O’Reilly last year rode cross-country to raise money for Lance Armstrong’s LiveStrong Foundation and Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks.

The organization’s slate of 2008 officers includes Gary DeLong as president, Kurt Larson as vice president, Tammy Weller as treasurer, Steve Brady as secretary and Monty Montgomery as past president. Tom Netzer will be up for election to the board tonight.