CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) UPDATES
| covidwaiver0720_bbrc.pdf |
Boston Bulldogs Weekly Runs
With the start of Phase 3 COVID-19 Guidelines in Massachusetts, we are excited to resume a number of weekly runs (cautiously). We ask that you review the schedule changes and COVID-19 Guidelines detailed below.
The Boston Bulldogs will resume weekly runs effective immediately in the following locations:
Running Resources
Strava
Stay connected to other Club members through Strava, a social-fitness network that tracks and shares exercise (primarily running and cycling) using GPS data. Basic service is free and easy to access. Just search for Strava on the app store, sign up with your phone and email address, upload a photo to your profile (if you like) and you’re good to go. If you are a member, you can access the Boston Bulldogs Club.
hollarhype
We’ve been working with the creators of a new app called hollarhype to enrich individual running experiences by giving you the ability to send and receive voice messages while you are running! Many of our Bulldogs have been using it since the fall. Similar to Strava, you will need to download the hollarhype app (from the App Store), then create an account using your email and phone number. If you are a member, you can access the Boston Bulldogs Group.
Rules of the Road
Please take care of yourselves and others in the community by observing the following guidelines:
RRCA guidelines for runners/walkers
August 2020:
Check out the latest podcast episode (#203) of How Was Your Run Today?
Good advice from Dr. Paul Sax on running and more during the COVID era
https://howwasyourruntoday.com/episodes/episode-203-%E2%80%93-dr-paul-sax-s1!65c0e
City of Boston - email from Mayor Walsh 04.01.20
We’re continuing to provide access to services for people in recovery. All of the City's recovery services are still open. We have online resources, including links to online AA and NA meetings, at Boston.gov/Recovery.
You can also call 3-1-1 to be connected to help.
Alcoholics Anonymous
Many, if not all, in-person AA meetings in the area have been temporarily suspended. Please consult the following letter from the General Service Office of Alcoholics Anonymous, which serves as a resource center for members. Please continue to check the AA website for updates. Many groups are moving to videoconference meetings via Zoom and other online options.
Other Recovery Support Systems
In the Rooms, a global recovery community, is another source of support when you can’t meet with others face-to-face. In The Rooms hosts video meetings for Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, and many other recovery fellowships. Meetings take place all day long—just check out the live meeting list to find a meeting you’d like to attend.
SAMHSA Virtual Recovery Resources
The Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has developed a “tip sheet” of resources that can be used during times like this to virtually support recovery from mental/substance use disorders. (It also provides resources to help local recovery programs create virtual meetings.)
RIZE
RIZE Massachusetts is an independent nonprofit foundation working to end the opioid epidemic in Massachusetts and reduce its devastating impact on people, communities, and our economy. RIZE has also developed a list of resources (COVID-19 and more broadly) to help support treatment and recovery from addiction.
Recovery Dharma Online
Recovery Dharma Online organizes daily meetings accessible via computer, smartphone, or dial-in, to meditate, study Buddhist teachings, and support each other on our paths to sobriety and peace. Click here for a list of virtual meetings.
NamaStay Sober
Yoga is another terrific activity to stay healthy and well. We recommend you check out NamaStay Sober, a Massachusetts-based charity whose mission is to aid those recovering from addiction by reconnecting their bodies and minds through complimentary yoga & fitness memberships, a practice of self awareness and wellness-focused community events. Join them for a virtual yoga class, meditation, workout, or community conversation -- every day at noon. These classes are donation-based, and 50% of all donations will go directly to the teacher. You can register here.
The Phoenix
One of several organizations also dedicated to building an active, sober community, The Phoenix is now offering free virtual programs, accessible via live-stream, Monday through Saturday. Click here for a list of classes.
Other Wellness Resources
Ten Percent Happier Meditation
Stay centered during challenging times through mindfulness meditation. It is a practice that can be started today - or even right now - with just a few minutes in a quiet space. There are many resources out there. One that we suggest to our members is Ten Percent Happier, which offers FREE guided meditations and practical teachings. They even have a “Coronavirus Sanity Guide” (FREE) and have encouraged people to share this resource.
Boston Bulldogs COVID-19 Alerts
MARCH 19, 2020
Given the recent decision by the B.A.A. to postpone the Boston Marathon to September 14, we wanted to make sure our friends and followers knew the latest on behalf of the many Bulldogs who’ve been preparing for this day for months - running and raising money for the organization. First, all 12 of our Bulldogs are still ON for the virtual version of this year's marathon in September, which is great news. Second, each Bulldog will continue their fundraising efforts, though may pause to adjust calendar of in-person activities and outreach given COVID-19. But the money raised by the team is a big part of our annual revenue goals and supports the Boston Bulldogs programs throughout the year. We are counting on everyone's continued support of our runners as they shift gears to prepare for September. We’re so proud of how the team has come together to support one another - both emotionally and socially - and the positive attitude they continue to bring to a pretty tough situation. Now more than ever we see the power of this community. Please take a few minutes to read their remarkable stories, and consider supporting the Club and their efforts.
MARCH 17, 2020
During a time when we are all asked to practice social distance and use discretion in our interactions with others, we recognize the challenges this presents for people accustomed to seeing friends on a regular basis to run and socialize. Please continue to run if you can! Fresh air, sunlight and movement of any kind are great ways to break up the isolation we may be feeling, and to reset our bodies, minds and souls.
While the Bulldogs as an organization has suspended all official group runs - and will continue to do so for the time being - we encourage you to stay connected with us and with each other. This is what we do! Below are some suggestions on this. If you have additional ideas on ways to connect with others "virtually," please send your suggestions to [email protected]. We will be collecting and sharing additional ideas in the coming days. Hang in there!
General COVID-19 Guidance:
Center for Disease Control (CDC)
As always, please consult the CDC website for the latest updates and information on how to stay healthy and prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
With the start of Phase 3 COVID-19 Guidelines in Massachusetts, we are excited to resume a number of weekly runs (cautiously). We ask that you review the schedule changes and COVID-19 Guidelines detailed below.
The Boston Bulldogs will resume weekly runs effective immediately in the following locations:
- Monday nights at 6:30pm in Quincy
- Tuesday nights at 6:30pm in Plymouth from Nelson Park
- Thursday nights at 6:30pm in in Cleveland Circle/ Chestnut Hill Reservoir
- Saturday mornings at 9:00am in Cleveland Circle/ Chestnut Hill Reservoir
- Scituate and Chicago runs continue to be suspended until further notice.
- ALL members will be asked to sign a COVID waiver before participating. A copy of the waiver is available above. If you have the ability to print documents, please print, sign, and give your signed copy to the Run Coordinator.
- Masks required during circle time and 6 foot distancing will be in effect.
- If you are feeling unwell, please do not participate.
Running Resources
Strava
Stay connected to other Club members through Strava, a social-fitness network that tracks and shares exercise (primarily running and cycling) using GPS data. Basic service is free and easy to access. Just search for Strava on the app store, sign up with your phone and email address, upload a photo to your profile (if you like) and you’re good to go. If you are a member, you can access the Boston Bulldogs Club.
hollarhype
We’ve been working with the creators of a new app called hollarhype to enrich individual running experiences by giving you the ability to send and receive voice messages while you are running! Many of our Bulldogs have been using it since the fall. Similar to Strava, you will need to download the hollarhype app (from the App Store), then create an account using your email and phone number. If you are a member, you can access the Boston Bulldogs Group.
Rules of the Road
Please take care of yourselves and others in the community by observing the following guidelines:
- Check local and CDC guidelines for maximum people in a group, curfew times etc
- Avoid crowded areas and peak times - best to run solo or with others in your household
- Practice physical distance – minimum of 6 feet
- “Mask up” (preferably a wicking version) when with or near others – and slow your pace a bit
- Try not to touch surfaces on your route
- Bring your own water
- DON’T run if you are feeling sick
RRCA guidelines for runners/walkers
August 2020:
Check out the latest podcast episode (#203) of How Was Your Run Today?
Good advice from Dr. Paul Sax on running and more during the COVID era
https://howwasyourruntoday.com/episodes/episode-203-%E2%80%93-dr-paul-sax-s1!65c0e
City of Boston - email from Mayor Walsh 04.01.20
We’re continuing to provide access to services for people in recovery. All of the City's recovery services are still open. We have online resources, including links to online AA and NA meetings, at Boston.gov/Recovery.
You can also call 3-1-1 to be connected to help.
Alcoholics Anonymous
Many, if not all, in-person AA meetings in the area have been temporarily suspended. Please consult the following letter from the General Service Office of Alcoholics Anonymous, which serves as a resource center for members. Please continue to check the AA website for updates. Many groups are moving to videoconference meetings via Zoom and other online options.
Other Recovery Support Systems
In the Rooms, a global recovery community, is another source of support when you can’t meet with others face-to-face. In The Rooms hosts video meetings for Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, and many other recovery fellowships. Meetings take place all day long—just check out the live meeting list to find a meeting you’d like to attend.
SAMHSA Virtual Recovery Resources
The Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has developed a “tip sheet” of resources that can be used during times like this to virtually support recovery from mental/substance use disorders. (It also provides resources to help local recovery programs create virtual meetings.)
RIZE
RIZE Massachusetts is an independent nonprofit foundation working to end the opioid epidemic in Massachusetts and reduce its devastating impact on people, communities, and our economy. RIZE has also developed a list of resources (COVID-19 and more broadly) to help support treatment and recovery from addiction.
Recovery Dharma Online
Recovery Dharma Online organizes daily meetings accessible via computer, smartphone, or dial-in, to meditate, study Buddhist teachings, and support each other on our paths to sobriety and peace. Click here for a list of virtual meetings.
NamaStay Sober
Yoga is another terrific activity to stay healthy and well. We recommend you check out NamaStay Sober, a Massachusetts-based charity whose mission is to aid those recovering from addiction by reconnecting their bodies and minds through complimentary yoga & fitness memberships, a practice of self awareness and wellness-focused community events. Join them for a virtual yoga class, meditation, workout, or community conversation -- every day at noon. These classes are donation-based, and 50% of all donations will go directly to the teacher. You can register here.
The Phoenix
One of several organizations also dedicated to building an active, sober community, The Phoenix is now offering free virtual programs, accessible via live-stream, Monday through Saturday. Click here for a list of classes.
Other Wellness Resources
Ten Percent Happier Meditation
Stay centered during challenging times through mindfulness meditation. It is a practice that can be started today - or even right now - with just a few minutes in a quiet space. There are many resources out there. One that we suggest to our members is Ten Percent Happier, which offers FREE guided meditations and practical teachings. They even have a “Coronavirus Sanity Guide” (FREE) and have encouraged people to share this resource.
Boston Bulldogs COVID-19 Alerts
MARCH 19, 2020
Given the recent decision by the B.A.A. to postpone the Boston Marathon to September 14, we wanted to make sure our friends and followers knew the latest on behalf of the many Bulldogs who’ve been preparing for this day for months - running and raising money for the organization. First, all 12 of our Bulldogs are still ON for the virtual version of this year's marathon in September, which is great news. Second, each Bulldog will continue their fundraising efforts, though may pause to adjust calendar of in-person activities and outreach given COVID-19. But the money raised by the team is a big part of our annual revenue goals and supports the Boston Bulldogs programs throughout the year. We are counting on everyone's continued support of our runners as they shift gears to prepare for September. We’re so proud of how the team has come together to support one another - both emotionally and socially - and the positive attitude they continue to bring to a pretty tough situation. Now more than ever we see the power of this community. Please take a few minutes to read their remarkable stories, and consider supporting the Club and their efforts.
MARCH 17, 2020
During a time when we are all asked to practice social distance and use discretion in our interactions with others, we recognize the challenges this presents for people accustomed to seeing friends on a regular basis to run and socialize. Please continue to run if you can! Fresh air, sunlight and movement of any kind are great ways to break up the isolation we may be feeling, and to reset our bodies, minds and souls.
While the Bulldogs as an organization has suspended all official group runs - and will continue to do so for the time being - we encourage you to stay connected with us and with each other. This is what we do! Below are some suggestions on this. If you have additional ideas on ways to connect with others "virtually," please send your suggestions to [email protected]. We will be collecting and sharing additional ideas in the coming days. Hang in there!
- Members are invited to join on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday nights of the month for #Together We Do zoom call at 6pm, hosted by Coach Mike and Meaghan O'Sullivan, Full Circle Coordinator. Please contact Meaghan if you would like to join and she can provide dial-in details: [email protected]
- Continue with your solo running, take pics and post to your social media channels with the hashtag #togetherwedo
- Join the Boston Bulldogs Strava group, where your runs will be logged for others in the group to see and comment on, offer encouragement, etc. You can also post pictures to Strava. Download the Strava app, sign up, then “explore” and scroll down to “clubs” to look for Boston Bulldogs Club. Once you request access, you will be quickly approved.
- For anyone in recovery, please look for ways to stay connected to your outside support groups by joining web- or phone-based meetings (e.g. 12-step programs, Smart Recovery, etc.) or with individual members of your support network.
General COVID-19 Guidance:
Center for Disease Control (CDC)
As always, please consult the CDC website for the latest updates and information on how to stay healthy and prevent the spread of the coronavirus.