My problem was that he didn’t really explain what was “counter-productive” nor did he elaborate other ways of educating people unless by “educate” you mean selling high-end (that’s my assumption–and i recognize it might be inaccurate) bicycles to people who can afford them.

The other thing that bothered me was that there are people who frequent that store and understand CM. This person made a unilateral decision. I recognize not everyone is into it, but does that mean that he can’t post a flyer about it? Further, a few days before I walked in another CMer had dropped off a flyer and they took it and told the person it would go up. So what does that mean?

Ted-

I think it’s a shame to write off an ally because of a minor difference in tactics. It seems like a more productive thing would be to go back and invite him personally to attend. Or invite him to write his thoughts and then post them on IndyMedia (or here). Or just accept that not everyone who believes in the goal believes in the same tactics.

I think Critical Mass has both positives and negatives. I loved it when I did it, but it’s easy to see how the nearly complete lack of explanation of our actions makes it difficult to convince or even educate anyone regarding our cause. CM could stand to be a lot more media savvy, so that our issues get talked about, not just honked at.

Regarding Full Moon Vista specifically: From what I can see, these folks really care about cyclists and the idea of cycling. That means they’re about 95% the same as the average CM rider ideologically, but they have a different method of advocacy. If those folks are worth tossing aside, then who’s worth forming an alliance with?

Thanks for all that you’re doing to make Rochester safe for cyclists.