The Cycling Dude

Hailing a 21st Century Rickshaw in Toronto, for Free

According to Wikipedia:

"Cycle rickshaws are Human-powered, often used on a for hire basis, equipped with one or more seats for carrying passengers in addition to the driver.

Cycle rickshaws are widely used in major cities around the world and are usually found in major urban centers, tourist attractions, and events that draw large crowds. Many cycle rickshaws have replaced less-efficient rickshaws that are pulled by a person on foot."

Wikipedia has some great info, including about where the contraprions are actually prohibited, and photos of different styles from around the world.

Cycle rickshaws are found in most large European cities, and have been gaining footholds in America, in New York, and CA..

The latest entry has just begun operation in Toronto, Canada, and won't charge a dime (or whatever the money in Canada is called!).

The above photo accompanied a story on Intelligent Traveller, which is one of two blogs I found that have reported on this.

Apparently this version, called an EcoCab, "runs mostly on a trained driver’s pedal-power, and is powered by a rechargeable electric battery".  (Toronto has hills, don't ya know, hee, hee!)

These emission-free three-wheelers go a spritely 7.5 miles an hour in bike lanes!

Rides are free, funded by advertising on the outside of each cab.

Intelligent Travel: Free EcoCabs, Eh?

According to the Torontoist:

"The Star also pointed out that the free service likely won't go over well with the notoriously cutthroat (not really) cadre of local rickshaw drivers (most of whom are merely in it for the money and—let's face it—glamour). It can't hurt, however, to have a new resource available for those environmentally conscious travellers who are willing to put up with a bit of B.O. so the earth doesn't have to deal the extra CO2."

Torontoist: Toronto's getting a free ride.

The comments on both blogs, about this, are an interesting mix. ;-D

Equal Parenting Bike Trek 2008: A Journey for Children's Rights

Across the nation there are Cycling Events held for some Cause, or another, or no Cause at all, and there are individuals, and organizations taking Cycling Journeys for some Cause, or no Cause at all, as well.

This evening I received word from Robert Pedersen, of A Child's Right, concerningt Five Fathers about to pedal 758 mile for children’s rights, from Lansing, MI. to Washington DC, beginning in early August.

They aim to "raise awareness of a child's fundamental right to be loved, guided, educated and nurtured equally by both fit and willing parents of divorce.

From the time I was Nine, when my Father became mentally ill, I grew up without a Father in my life to help my Mother raise me, and my two sisters, andt we turned out reasonably well, if you ask me, hee, hee. ;-D

However, there are countless kids of divorce who grow up without the benefit of access to a willing parent who does not have custody of them.

I am doing my small part to publicize this issue by joining many others in spreading the word about this event.

The Website is Cycling4Children.com, and this post shares photos, videos, news stories, and more about the 2008 event, as does this one with regards to the 2007 ride (2007 Photos).

Other sites of interest:

DaddyBlogger.com has an extensive report on the 2008 National Fatherhood Summit with a ton of links to coverage.

Cycling Study Tours Offered by Brit Family Living in Netherlands

I recently received the following Press Release from Hembro Cycling Holidays/Cycling Study Tours, and let me say, up front, the resources they steer readers to are extensive, and interesting, and the many photos, and videos are a pure joy to look at, and will most likely make you extremely jealous and probably lead you to wonder why the hell can't the greatest nation in the world do some of this, too? ;-D

FACT GUARANTEED TO BLOW YOUR MIND: All Dutch railway stations seem to have thousands of bikes parked at them. ( Just watch the videos if you don't believe it. ;-D )

CYCLING STUDY TOUR

A Study Tour in the world's most cycle friendly country.

For transport professionals, politicians, campaigners and journalists.

There have been many words spoken about reducing CO2 emissions to tackle climate change, increasing the amount of exercise taken by the population to fight obesity and about the streets being made into places where people matter instead of motor vehicles. However, the English speaking world still does not invest sufficiently in truly sustainable transport. In fact, new infrastructure is still designed very much like the old infrastructure, emphasizing flow of motorized traffic above all else, reducing opportunities to take exercise as a part of everyday life, and decreasing the freedom of people to make use of the space outside their home. As a result, use of sustainable transport is low, obesity is growing and children are not given the freedom to get sufficient exercise.

Many countries seem to produce more words than action. Announcements of available money often sound substantial, but they're spread thinly and have low priority. Along with the lack of money there is the problem of a lack of vision about what good quality design for cyclists and pedestrians actually means. Low quality infrastructure makes the use of alternatives to the car unattractive.

It doesn't have to be this way.

Having made different policy decisions over many decades, the Dutch now travel travel by bicycle more often than by car. There is universal well designed infrastructure which makes cycling an appealing option for most people. As a result, most people cycle. Cyclists feel safe and their journeys are efficient and direct. Virtually all children cycle to school daily, incidence of obesity is comparatively low and reliance on fossil fuels is lower.

The Dutch are doing the right things and they have the results to prove it: More cycling, with a better safety record, than any other nation. Real, proven results, not just good intentions or hot air. Their success could and should be copied elsewhere.

Quick Facts:

In the entire Netherlands around 30% of all journeys are by bicycle. The second highest country is Denmark with around 14%. Most countries have under 2% of their journeys by bicycle, some fewer than 1%. Around 40% of journeys within Dutch cities are made by bicycle.

In the Netherlands, more journeys under 7.5 km / 5 miles are made by bicycle than by any other means.

In the Netherlands, older people are also mobile. Over 10% of cycle journeys are made by over 60s.

Virtually all Dutch school-children cycle to school.

Dutch cycle paths frequently offer shorter routes than the roads. They are smooth and well maintained. Dutch cyclists are not expected to share space with pedestrians, and the standard width for cycle only two direction paths is 4 metres ( 13 feet ).

Levels of public transport usage in the Netherlands are not much different than those in other countries. There is far greater potential for reduction in fossil fuel reliance by encouraging cycling than by subsidizing public transport. In addition it leads to a far greater cut in fuel usage and other benefits for society such as an increase in general health and a reduction in noise and fumes.

London recently announced its largest ever figure for walking and cycling: £500M. This sounds remarkable, and it's very welcome, but breaks down to a level of expenditure which is not particularly high by European standards. The sum is to be spread across several years. For instance, in 2008/2009, £62M is to be spent for both Walking and Cycling. Across London's 7.5M population this amounts to a little over £8 (approximately US$16) per person per year. Another European capital, Amsterdam, currently spends around €26 (approximately £20 or US$40) per person per year on cycling alone. Walking has a separate budget. Unlike UK cities, Dutch cities are not starting from nowhere. They have been spending this much for decades.

So what are we up to with our Study Tours?

Who are we ?

We are a British family who have lived and cycled in many parts of the UK including London, Cambridge, Somerset and Yorkshire. Our cycling experience includes commuting, shopping, tours with and without children, a little racing and even riding Land's End to John O'Groats (the entire length of Great Britain - 1700 km / 1100 miles).

We now live in the green city of Assen in the North of the Netherlands. Winters are cold here and headwinds are fierce, but the population of 63000 people nevertheless makes an average of 70000 cycle journeys per day. We make our share of those journeys.

What are we doing ?

We are organising Study Tours for all interested parties to show how much has been achieved in this country. We will be showing participants the result of design for people rather than for motorised vehicles. We will show the practical results of putting into action long term plans to achieve a more mobile and fitter society.

Over 3 full days we will show commuting routes, school routes, city centres, residential areas, links between villages and the design of new developments. All these were designed with cycling as a priority. We also have a presentation from local experts giving their rationale.

The cost of participating has been kept low in order that it will be accessible to as many people as possible.

Full details of the Study Tour, including photos and feedback from previous participants, can be found on our website:

The first Study Tour this year runs from the 13th to the 15th of May. This tour is now fully booked.

We are now taking bookings for the second Study Tour which runs from the 20th to the 22nd of May and soon will be taking bookings for the third Study Tour which runs from the 10th to the 12th of June.

References:

Articles in English about Dutch cycling policies

Photos:

Photos of Dutch cycling conditions.

Contact Details:

David and Judith Hembrow

E-MAIL: david at hembrow.eu

WEBSITE: Hembrow Cycling Holidays

***UPDATE - 4/7/08***

David Hembrow has sent me an interesting E-Mail in response to this post. ;-D

***END UPDATE***

GM Stuns Cycling Industry: Becomes New Owner of Specialized

***UPDATE - 530PM***

APRIL FOOLS!!! ;-D

As one of the pranksters responsible writes me:

Well, the cat's out of the bag.

Specialized had a good laugh about it, but then they asked us to pull the story so we did.

They were getting overwhelmed with phone calls from dealers.

Thanks for posting that link, Kiril.!

Richard (aka Fritz), of Cyclicious

BikeBiz started getting e-mail, soon after posting, from folks around the world, all atwitter over the news. ;-D

The story linked in my original story, below (I was one of several BikeBloggers approached to help "report" the news of the original stories.), have been updated with details on those responsible, and reaction from Specialized, which found it very amusing, even as they found themselves swamped with phone calls from dealers expressing concern. ;-D

A trade news website was among those initially fooled, as reported (With a captured image, from a Google Search) by another conspirator, who shares links to some other spoofs, including cycling ones.

***END UPDATE***

General Motors announces it's taking over Specialized Bicycles!

Wow!

Being a proud, longtime, owner of a Specialized Sirrus Sport Hybrid Road Bicycle, this story caught my attention.

The boards of both companies apparently agreed to this on Friday, according to the report in the San Jose Business Journal.

The deal is expected to be completed later this year pending regulatory approval in the US, and elsewhere.

I found the following quote to be quite interesting:

"In light of global concerns about climate change, GM has been at the forefront in developing new transportation choices that limit our impact on the environment," said Flora Lopi, GM's vice president, Environment, Energy and Safety Policy. "GM's engineering, marketing and distribution expertise combined with Specialized's branding among cycling enthusiasts make this a winning combination for GM investors and consumers."

Just as interesting was the following by Specialized founder and president Mike Sinyard:

"All of us here at Specialized are thrilled to be a part of GM.

"Specialized will maintain commitment to the IBD as well as now being available across the nation in GM dealerships. These are quality retail outlets, not big box discounters. Specialized will never be available in mass merchants.

GM Chairman and CEO Rick Wagoner sounds real gung ho about this, too, saying someting about "changing the way we address our transportation needs", and "leveraging the unique synergies of the bicycle community to introduce some of our ideas for addressing critical issues concerning energy, the environment and globalisation."

It will be interesting to see how industry, media, and ordinary folks reactions will play out in the coming days.

I'd love to hear from readers in the comments to this post as well.

Do you think this is a good move by the parties involved?

Is it good for bicycling ?

Along those lines...

There will apparently be a conference call with Specialized founder Mike Sinyard, and Robert Kruse, an Executive Director for GM's North American Engineering Staff, later today.

BikeBiz.com reports it will book a slot on the call:

If you have a question for Sinyard or the GM execs, leave a comment at BikeBiz and they promise to try to use some of the questions during the conference call, which starts at midday, US mountain time.

The Cycling Cat: Reporting the Wild Side of Bicycling 7

Hello, dear reader, my name is Nikita, and I turned 10 years old last week.

The human you know as The Cycling Dude has been my life long companion, and bosum buddy, and I have also been his co-blogger for years.

What am I doing here?

This week Daddy has been very, very, busy, and so he asked me to fill in for him, and keep you entertained and informed. ;-D

The first post in this series, from March 7, has pictures of me, and a link to where I normally blog, if you are interested.

Daddy will explain everything, when he returns to blogging, I promise. ;-D

So, let's roll!

1. Can anyone answer these 2 questions:

Is bicycle grease harmful to cats?

How do you remove bicycle grease from a cat?

Fat Guy Cycling first asked these questions way back in 2004.

The blog seems to have ended in 2005 so I wonder if anyone answered him. ;-D

2. In a related story found posted on Yahoo last year:

QUESTION: My cat is not eating, I suspect he has ingested some bicycle grease. This has been the fourth day?

Very interesting.

3. More from the medical community on cats who cycle:

The female cat begins cycling when she has reached 80% of her adult size and when the days are appropriately long. This could be as young as 5 months of age.

Yeah, but what about us guys? I have not set paw on a cycle in my life! You would think I'd have started by now what with Daddy being a cyclist and all.

Indoor cats are sheltered from the light cycles of the sun and may not cycle as frequently as their outdoor counterparts.

All righty then! THAT explains it! My sheltered, pampered, life style has stunted my physical and emotional growth!

Okaaay... ;-D

4. About those cycling Cats... in related news:

Back in September, on World Tourism Day, in India, a group of adventure enthusiasts from around the world, "who want to be a part of the city adventure tours, treks, and sports", posted an invite on its blog:

It's World Tourism Day tomorrow and Cats are being invited to participate in the Cycling Event taking place tomorrow morning with the international tourists. The peddling off time is 7am and we should be able to go home by 8am.

Chandigarh Adventures, Treks and Sports

Okay all this talk of bicycling Pussys has me tired out!

Yes, you guessed it!

Nap time!

Catch ya later! ;-D

The Cycling Cat: Reporting the Wild Side of Bicycling 6

Hello, dear reader, my name is Nikita, and I am 10 years old this week.

The human you know as The Cycling Dude has been my life long companion, and bosum buddy, and I have also been his co-blogger for years.

What am I doing here?

This week Daddy is very, very, busy, and so he asked me to fill in for him, and keep you entertained and informed. ;-D

The first post in this series, from March 7, has pictures of me, and a link to where I normally blog, if you are interested.

Daddy will explain everything, when he returns to blogging, I promise. ;-D

So, let's roll!

1. From Artmam.net: Cat Flag Bicycle Touring.

A collection of links to resources, and organizations.

2. "De cat, he fight like tiger!"

The Tiger Cat Tour in Wisconsin, from Wisconline's Bike Tour Page:

The dam keeper's tale of his tomcat besting a much larger otter earned him the name Tiger Cat Jack and eventually tagged the whole flowage. The gently rolling terrain (except for the Seeley Hills) will lead you through classic Northwoods lake country where the loon eagle, and osprey are often seen. Wait for them to appear at the dam site on the Little Chief River.

Distance: 35 miles if Seely trailhead is used or 28 miles if OO Rest Cabin is used.

Difficulty: Easy for the short route.

The long route includes a few steep hills.

Trailhead Location: The unicorporated town of Seeley, 10 miles north of Hayward, or the Birkebeiner Ski Trail OO Rest Cabin, 3 miles east of Seeley on County OO, Sawyer County.

For More Information Hayward Area Chamber of Commerce, tel. 800-724-2992

3. Canadian Veterinary Journal Reports on Cycling by Cats:

Two cats in the study did not cycle and exhibited anestrus. Of the five cats cycling, eight estrus periods were observed of two to five days duration.

Fascinating! Who the hell knew? ;-D

On that note...it's nap time again!

Catch ya later!

The Cycling Cat: Reporting the Wild Side of Bicycling 5

Hello, dear reader, my name is Nikita, and I am 10 years old this week.

The human you know as The Cycling Dude has been my life long companion, and bosum buddy, and I have also been his co-blogger for years.

What am I doing here?

For the next week or so Daddy will be very, very, busy, and so he asked me to fill in for him, and keep you entertained and informed. ;-D

The first post in this series, from March 7, has pictures of me, and a link to where I normally blog, if you are interested.

Daddy will explain everything, when he returns to blogging, I promise. ;-D

So, let's roll!

1. The Cat Art Gallery is a wonderful website!

A blog featuring paintings, photography, drawings and art objects about cats from multiple artists.

Here is a great image of a woman, bicycle, and cat. ;-D

2. A cool way to take your cat (or Dog!) on a bike ride. ;-D

Track'r Medium Pet Stroller and Bicycle Trailer For Pets up to 45 Pounds.

3. A Cat Bikes in Britain. ;-D

Well, that's all for today!

I'm going to go take a well-deserved nap. ;-D

The Cycling Cat: Reporting the Wild Side of Bicycling 4

Hello, dear reader, my name is Nikita, and I am 10 years old this week.

The human you know as The Cycling Dude has been my life long companion, and bosum buddy, and I have also been his co-blogger for years.

What am I doing here?

For the next week or so Daddy will be very, very, busy, and so he asked me to fill in for him, and keep you entertained and informed. ;-D

The first post in this series, from March 7, has pictures of me, and a link to where I normally blog, if you are interested.

Daddy will explain everything, when he returns to blogging, I promise. ;-D

So, let's roll!

1. Cyclist discovers that blinking rear lights make cool cat toys! ;-D

2. What the hell is a Color Cycling Cat?

3. From Suite101.com:

Some thoughts on how to stay safe when you encounter threatening animals while cycling.

Cycling and Animals: Tips for Avoiding Problems With Dogs and Other Animals While Biking.

Well, that's all for today!

I'm going to go take a well-deserved nap. ;-D

The Cycling Cat: Reporting the Wild Side of Bicycling 3

Hello, dear reader, my name is Nikita, and I am 10 years old this week.

The human you know as The Cycling Dude has been my life long companion, and bosum buddy, and I have also been his co-blogger for years.

What am I doing here?

For the next week or so Daddy will be very, very, busy, and so he asked me to fill in for him, and keep you entertained and informed. ;-D

The first post in this series, from March 7, has pictures of me, and a link to where I normally blog, if you are interested.

Daddy will explain everything, when he returns to blogging, I promise. ;-D

So, let's roll!

1. Cool Cat Bicycle Helmet Program in Michigan:

The Cool Cat Bicycle Helmet Program was developed in 1996 to increase the use and knowledge of bicycle helmets in young children and their parents through the development of a training program targeting preschoolers. The program also hoped to increase local community involvement in bicycle helmet promotions.

The Cool Cat Bicycle Helmet program used a character-based curriculum to educate preschool children on how to properly use a bicycle helmet. "Cool Cat the Brain Defender" performed a skit and song to convey the safety message to students. Each student, while wearing a bicycle helmet, had their picture taken with Cool Cat. A brain board presentation described how helmets protect the brain during a crash.

Teachers also distributed a bicycle helmet curriculum guide, coloring books and stickers to each student.

The Michigan Department of Community Health presented the Cool Cat Bicycle Helmet program to more than 4,000 preschoolers in 1996 throughout the state. Through the program, over 4,000 coloring books and stickers and 1,000 bicycle helmets have been distributed to participating students. In addition, more than 10,000 parent bicycle helmet brochures have been provided to a variety of community agencies, for dissemination to program parents.

The Cool Cat program is now presented throughout Michigan to reach more young children and their parents.

2. Pedal out to the ballgame:

Here is an excellent story about innovation in baseball that does not involve the use of illegal drugs:

When the San Francisco Giants began planning for their new downtown baseball stadium in the early 1990s, many neighbors expressed concerns about the traffic that a new ballpark would generate. To alleviate these objections, the Giants developed a comprehensive transportation management plan, which included excellent access to light rail, commuter rail, and ferries. The plan also included a first for major league baseball: indoor, secure, staffed bike parking.

The Giants contracted with the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition (SFBC) to staff the bike parking facility, located on the southern side of the present SBC Park (nee Pacific Bell Park) overlooking the waters of McCovey Cove. The SFBC is a 4,400-member nonprofit advocacy group which promotes bicycling for everyday transportation. The SFBC has for many years provided valet bike parking for numerous events throughout San Francisco, and the coalition was successful passing legislation requiring secure bicycle parking at major events in the city. Valet bike parking at the SBC Park facility was a logical extension of the coalition's work.

The Sacramento River Cats Minor League Baseball Team also provides secure staffed bike parking outdoors in a fenced area near the main entrance to its ballpark.

Sadly the Los Angeles Dodgers are striking out.

I'm gonna tell Daddy to look into the Anaheim Angels, and Ducks. ;-D

Read: BIKE ME OUT TO THE BALL GAME: Bike facilities lacking at California ballparks.

Well, that's all for today!

I'm going to go take a well-deserved nap. ;-D

 

The Cycling Cat: Reporting the Wild Side of Bicycling 2

Hello, dear reader, my name is Nikita, and I am 10 years old this week.

The human you know as The Cycling Dude has been my life long companion, and bosum buddy, and I have also been his co-blogger for years.

What am I doing here?

For the next week or so Daddy will be very, very, busy, and so he asked me to fill in for him, and keep you entertained and informed. ;-D

The first post in this series, from March 7, has pictures of me, and a link to where I normally blog, if you are interested.

Daddy will explain everything, when he returns to blogging, I promise. ;-D

So, let's roll!

I awoke this morning all happy, and stuff...missing Daddy, true, but still happy, and carefree.

Then I saw a horrible photo that made me want to scratch someone's eyes out, and it was on a Cycling Blog!

The post is titled FOR CAT LOVERS EVERYWHERE, and features a picture of what looks like a dead cat in the part of the street where bicyclists ride.

In the grass to the side of the road is a handmande sign that reads FREE CAT,  and has an arrow pointing at the poor creature.

The blogger is a CPA who is "a crazy, silly, cycling husband and father in my personal life" who enjoys acting on stage at church, and also has a small side career as an Elvis Presley impersonater.

He claims his daily goal is to make someone laugh.

Sorry, dude, but this photo WAS NOT FUNNY!

One commentor said he was happy his cat finally died because he finds cats annoying.

Another commented..."The only good cat..."

Three others also thought it was funny.

Only 1 person expressed displeasure.

What might have been his wife commented that "He loves our cat, Y'ALL!!! TEE He HE!!!", in defense of this trash.

Cats who live outdoors 24/7 have a difficult life, with motor vehicles being a prime source of danger.

To make light of this for ones amusement, not to mention posting something that implies that maybe the poor victim was run over by a bicyclist, is just wrong.

For one thing most cats can out run a bicyclist any day of the week... ;-D

And, for another, this implication gives cyclists a bad name because most cyclists are very aware of their surroundings, and the animals (Not just cats, but dogs, squirrels, bunnies, lizards, birds, and more!) they might encounter and, according to Daddy, ride in a safe manner.

This picture was posted in January of last year, and the blog, The Bicycle Rack, was discontinued in May.

1. The Bicycling Cats of Australia.

The Gold Coast CATS, is one of the largest sports cycling clubs in Queensland. Our membership, both male and female, consists of some of the best riders in Australia, several having represented Australia at an international level, including Commonwealth and Olympic Games.

Lots of news, information,resources, and photos!

2. Speaking of cycling in Australia:

One BikeBlogger has been wondering for months if they make bike helmets for cats. ;-D

After returning from a ride the family cat came rushing to welcome him home.

Miette, (our cat) was purring around our legs. She was just too cute so Polka Dot Lisa picked her up and I suggested she put her in the basket of her old ladies bike.

They seemed quite surprised that the cat didn't freak out. ;-D

They even gave her a short ride, and she loved it! ;-D

See the really cool picture! ;-D

As for the answer to that question: Yes, they do. ;-D

Well, that's all for today!

I'm going to go take a well-deserved nap. ;-D

The Cycling Cat: Reporting the Wild Side of Bicycling

It is 7am, and you are pedaling down a Class 1 Multi-use Trail, and can't help but notice that, my, my, there seem to be more than a few stray cats about today...

or,

You are pedaling along some rugged mountain trail, nervously attuned to the slightest movement in the bushes on either side of the road because you remember the tragic attacks by the big cats known to prowl about, but who, statistically, prefer to keep away from the human intruders to their domain...

Yes, dear reader, cyclists, and cats have always encountered each other on the trail, and on the street, and always will.

Hello, dear reader, my name is Nikita, and I am 10 years old this week.

The human you know as The Cycling Dude has been my life long companion, and bosum buddy, and I have also been his co-blogger for years, first at 1 blog he retired last year, after 5 1/2 years, and now at his new place, Musings of a Mad Macedonian.

If you want to learn more about me, and see more great pictures of me, you can go to the archive at Daddy's Blog, a blog within the blog that I call Nikita's Place, where, by scrolling up and down, you can explore all that I have written. ;-D

You can even go to Daddy's Main page and explore the rest of the blog if you wish. ;-D

What am I doing here?

For the next 11 days Daddy will be very, very, busy, and so he asked me to fill in for him, and keep you entertained and informed. ;-D

Daddy will explain everything, when he returns to blogging, I promise. ;-D

So, let's roll!

1. Bicyclsts in New York say..."Get Involved Ya' Bums!"

The Fats in the Cats Bicycle Club is a fun bunch of cyclists that look for ways to foster cycling and community. The club organizes group rides and performs trail maintenance as well as giving back to the community through our Gifts for the Holidays program and being advocates for bicycling.

A news page, a photo page, forums, trail, and route info galore, and lots of links to NY, and New England Resources can be found on this site.

2. Bicyclists in Texas echo the above sentiments, but with a very different accent. ;-D

The Cool Cats Cycling Club, of San Antonio,  is a recreational road-riding club in which all levels of rider and all types of bikes are welcome...

They don't care if you ride a road bike, hybrid, tandem, or a MTB because "We go slow, stop frequently, and have lots of fun! No rider is ever left behind. We'll push you up hills, help fix your flats and teach you all there is to riding a bike properly and safely."

They participate in several charity bicycle events throughout the year, and are active in other ways in their community.

The website has forums, photos, and plenty of ride info, and more.

3. Large Cat attempts to ride a bicycle. ;-D

4. Cats very interested in Bicycling and Pedestrian Issues in Northern Illinois.

5. Coalition for Appropriate Transportation (CAT)

CAT improves mobility,
celebrates our community and the environment
through education about
safe pedestrian access,
bicycling,
public transportation,
and our trail systems.

Based in Pennsylvania this fabulous organization is an educational charity that works to improve mobility for everyone.

It believes that improved walking, bicycling and transit mean a stronger economy, and a higher quality of life.

It believes more transportation choices mean less congestion, reduced pollution, fewer auto crash deaths and life changing injuries.

It believes that curbing the  use of the automobile fights suburban sprawl, obesity and increasingly high medical costs.

CAT helps humans enjoy their car free options!

The information, from news, walking and cycling tips, to places to walk and ride, and more, is extensive.

Well, that's all for today!

Let Daddy know what you think, I'll be back tomorrow. ;-D

In the mean time...I'm going to go take a well-deserved nap. ;-D

Rare Neuromuscular Disorder No Hindrance for CrossCountry Cyclist

This is a cool story about a worthy cause.

The Cause? To raise money to find a cure for a rare desease:

Friedreich’s ataxia is a life-shortening, debilitating and rare genetic neurodegenerative disorder. Onset of symptoms usually occurs between the ages of 5 and 15. Symptoms include muscle weakness and loss of coordination in the arms and legs; impairment of vision, hearing and speech; aggressive scoliosis (curvature of the spine); diabetes, and a serious heart condition. Most patients need a wheelchair full-time by their late teens and die as young adults. There is currently no treatment or cure.

January 3, 2008 — Kyle Bryant and Team Ride Ataxia are preparing to begin their second cross-country journey to draw attention and raise research funds to find a cure for the rare neuromuscular disorder Friedreich’s ataxia with which Bryant and other teammates are affected.

The team will begin the ride on March 15, 2008 at the state capitol building in Sacramento, CA and conclude in Las Vegas, NV on March 27, 2008 at the National Ataxia Foundation’s 51st Annual Meeting. It will be a 13-day trip covering 600+ miles.

Check out the Blog linked above, and a short video by Kyle.

The rest of the Press Release can be read at the Blog of Kyle's friend, Bali What?

Cycling Club In Seattle Raises Funds for Flood Victims

The Cascade Bicycle Club  has begun to raise money for flood relief for Seattle-to-Portland bike-route cities of Centralia and Chehalis. Flood damage could top $1 billion in the wake of the devastating flooding that swept through the region last week.

Cascade is pledging $2,500 in matching funds for flood relief through the Centralia United Way. You can donate online now, or send it to:

United Way of Lewis County, attn: CBC Flood Relief, 450 NW Pacific Avenue, Chehalis, WA 98532.

In a letter to members, Ayers wrote:

Dear Cyclist:

By now you have probably seen or read about the devastating flood damage in Centralia, Chehalis, and many of the smaller towns in southwest Washington. This is the route of Cascade's well-known Group Health Seattle to Portland bike ride. We rely on the hospitality of these communities to house, feed and support thousands of riders year after year. Clearly, these communities help make STP one of our most popular events.

While we provide donations and payments to many charities and groups along the way for helping out with STP, they need our help NOW. Thousands of people have been forced to flee their homes and businesses and are now returning to find the entire contents unusable or destroyed beyond repair by the water and mud.

Just imagine this happening to your home. What about food? Fresh water? A place to sleep? A shower? Whatever happened to the toothbrushes, soap, bandaids, coffee? Any amount we can give will be welcome.

Cascade is pledging $2,500 in matching funds for flood relief. With your donation, we can turn this into $5,000 or more. We are working with the Centralia United Way who is waiving processing and administration fees so all donations go directly to relief efforts on the ground.

Please join us in giving a helping hand to the people of southwest Washington. You can give two ways:

1. donate on-line now or
2. send a check payable to:
   United Way of Lewis County
   attn: CBC Flood Relief
   450 NW Pacific Avenue
   Chehalis, WA 98532

This is an amazing effort for a worthy cause, and I'm going to do my own small part:

Gene Bisbee, of Biking Bis, gave me the heads-up about this story and has sent out a challenge:

I'll donate $5 to the CBC flood relief for each of the first 20 bloggers who put a link to this post, and mention STP and flood relief, on their blog by noon (PST) Wednesday. Please leave a comment or send me an email that you've done so; I'll also check Technorati.

I get paid on Friday and will send a $20 contribution of my own.

If you are a cyclist, especially if you are a cyclist who enjoys taking long rides, and participating in Cycling Family Fun Rides/Cycling Tour events that occur all year long in every state of the Union, please consider making any contribution you can afford this Holiday Season.

Xtry! Xtry! Read All About It! Cycling Not Just for Kids!

Well, I'll be hornswoggled! How do ya like that?

I mean, whoda thunk it? ;-D

The headline to a news story I came across just struck me as funny. ;-D

The headline of the article by Bobby Swofford, of the Times Record, of Ft. Smith, Ar., had me wondering where he'd been hiding for the last 20 years ( At least! )...

Cycling Not Just for Youngsters

Then I began to read the article:

Cycling isn’t just for the young anymore, and that was apparent on the second day of the Celebrity Classic cycling event in Van Buren.

John Agnitsch and James Corcoran were just two of the 45 riders who took part, and although the two had different results, they share the same thoughts on the sport.

“You get out there and it is just you and the sky,” said Agnitsch, a 52-year-old Oklahoma City native. “I did the best I could do, but these guys are the best and one guy beat some of the pros yesterday.”

Corcoran had tremendous success over the weekend as he won the Arkansas State championship for his division on Saturday, and followed that up with a win in the 45 and older event on Sunday.

I don't normally concern myself with the Racing Scene, but when I saw that headline I had to see what the Oct.1 story was about. ;-D

Read the short, interesting, story here.

Massive Bicycle Rental Scheme in Paris

Here's an interesting story out of France.

Sems all that high falutin' "Cuisine" over there, is making everyone too fat, and the Government is trying to get everyone off their lard asses.....

Nah, that's not the true reason... ;-D

Paris put the wheels in motion for more eco-friendly transport on Sunday when more than 10,000 gleaming grey bicycles went up for rental at hundreds of stations across the city.

Paris Mayor Bertrand Delanoe unveiled the bicycle rental scheme to encourage residents and tourists to pedal their way along the Seine, past the Louvre and around the Eiffel Tower, cutting back traffic and reducing pollution.

The new service called Velib will "bring to Paris lovers a bit more air, a bit more innovation and as its name suggests, a lot more liberty," Delanoe said at a ceremony to launch the bicycle rental in central Paris.

It seems that other cities on the Continent have the same idea.

Read the full story, in the Taipei Times, of all places. ;-D

The Bicycle Lift of Norway

Trondheim is a university city with 30 000 students, 90 % of whom using their bicycles as their main transport tool...

Jarle Wanvik, a bicyclist, has created a bicycle lift invention, a cable driven stepping-pad that pushes bicyclists up a steep hill that lies between Trondheim's city center and the University.

So far this prototype hasn't been set up anywhere else, even after 14 years!

Check out the website, with its photos, and video, for more info.

It's a very clever concept that addresses the very real problem of them pesky hills. ;-D

I know some folks in Los Angeles who would love to see this contraption on the famously STEEEP Fargo Street Hill. But then the excuse to challenge oneself to the climb each March would be gone! ;-D

The Bicycle Lift: Sustainable Urban Transport

Bicycle and Beach Changes Url and Name

Gary Green sends word that he has changed the name of his website as it has added new content over the past year:

As of 5/22/07 I have renamed the website to something more appropriate. I have changed the name from Bicycle and Beach to "The Bicycle Bum". Similar to Beach Bum, Surf Bum, Ski Bum, Frisbee Bum, Scuba bum, Bicycle Bum .

This site is designed to provide some information for those who enjoy riding their bicycles in a non-competitive recreational manner or use their bicycles for regular transportation to and from work or wherever.

This site does not include any information or interest in bicycle racing. I promote the use of bicycles for personal pleasure and practical transportation type riding.

As it has always been, in its 4 year existence, the place is a great source of information so give it a look see. ;-D

Carry Freedom and the Bamboo Bicycle Trailer

A Scottish organization, called Carry Freedom, has produced an innovative product the plans for which they have posted online so you can make your own.

Our bicycle trailer's make it easier to carry by bike.
This makes bikes more useful more often,
encouraging more cycling and makes society healthier.

Our Bamboo bicycle trailer plans allow anyone to build a trailer out of practically anything with hardly any tools for free. The bicycle trailer helps bikes to do a more useful job; from acting as ambulances to carrying food to market. This is Carry Freedom for everyone.

This non-profit project extends Carry Freedom to everyone. We distribute plans to the 3rd world through charities such as

World Bicycle Relief. You can help by building trailer's, suggesting improvements, and spreading the idea to those who need it the most.

Very interesting.

In return for getting the plans once you build your own they ask for some feedback.

The website has a History of the project, and and information , though brief, look at construction details.

They even have links to 8 other Free Bicycle Trailer Websites.

Visit the official website to learn more.

Even though the Free Your Bike Blog only has posts from January thru Sept. 2006, it is still worth checking out for more on the Trailer, the Project, and more.

Bob Lee and A Ride for 3 Reasons

I received an e-mail, yesterday, from someone named Edson McLean, asking for my help in spreading the word about a very special man, and the ride he is undertaking:

Bob Lee, a 65 year old blogger who is riding his bicycle 6,500 miles across the United States to raise money for charity. 

Bob Lee is the man behind A Ride For 3 Reasons, a cross-country bike ride to raise funding for the fight against Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS) and cancer, and to support hospice care. 

And Bob is donating every penny he raises (and I mean every penny - not one cent goes to expenses) to these three causes very near and dear to him. 

Because he has no marketing orexpense budget, Bob is completely relying on donations and word-of-mouth to publicize his ride and to get donations.

Bob started his ride on March 29, and is posting daily updates (including photosand videos) on the blog during his ride.

He also has a message board for people to share their stories and thoughts.

Quicken Loans is proud to be a sponsor of A Ride For 3 Reasons and we are privileged to have been given the opportunity to donate the new web site and blog for Bob's ride.

The buzz is already starting and Bob's original goal of $195,000 raised has already been met and he is just starting the ride.  His new goal of $500,000 should be a piece of cake. 

With your help to promote A Ride For 3 Reasons, perhaps Bob will raise $1 million before his ride ends in October.

It all goes to great causes, so there are only winners in this ride.

I pedaled on over for a look at the website.

This isn't the 1st cross-country ride he's done, just the latest. ;-D

The 3 Charities are the American Cancer Society, The Les Turner ALS Foundation, and the National Hospice Foundation.

3 of my favorite posts, on his picture filled blog, so far:

“It’s more important to find significance in your life, rather than what most people consider ‘success’ in their careers”.

Bob realizes something we could all learn from: The most important things in life are not the dollars you have in your bank account; rather it’s the people you touch as you complete your lifelong journey.

3/28: Finding Significance With A New Web Site.

I can relate to those sentiments.

My life was going nowhere, more or less, before I began to makes changes at the age of 39.

Getting a computer, forsaking credit cards for the next 8 years, making career changes after 18 years in a dead-end job, and moving to Orange County all were important mileposts along the way, but there was something else that changed my life in so many ways;

Going online, joining a few forums, and eventually becoming a Blogger, especially a BikeBlogger.

Through my early forum experiences, then my Blogging, on both Blogs, I've grown as a person, made new friends, had many profound life altering, and other, experiences, and I've touched the lives of many people.

On my 2001 cross-country ride I met a group of lady cyclist who were also riding from San Diego to St Augustine.  I had often thought to myself, what do the ladies do when they needed to go?  So to be sure I am continuing my education, I asked one of the group leaders. 

She said at first it is difficult, but within a week they learn that if they squat off the side of the road and shut their eyes, no one can see them. 

Well today, I was riding through some low swampy areas.  Bruce’s advise was don’t stray too far from the side of the road and don’t shut my eye.  There are alligators in the swamps.

3/31: To Get Where You're Going You Have To Leave Where You Are.

Again, those are words that have strong meaning for me because if i had not left my previous life behind I would not be who, and where, I am today.

One of the joys of taking a bike ride some place you have never been is discovering the street, and business signs or, if you are lucky as I once was, a Burma Shave Series, so that's why I liked The Bee City Petting Zoo and Other Signs from April 7th. ;-D

There are 4 ways  people can make Donations, including that One or more miles can be adopted for just $20 each.

I don't know if I will ever manage a cross country ride, but I've got this notion to ride up Highway 101, in stages, from San Ysidro, to Santa Barbara, and similarly along Route 66, from Santa Monica to Needles.

I've riden 66 miles in one day before, and I plan on doing my 1st Century, so anything is possible! ;-D

Google, and Ikea, Bike Friendly?

According to the Guardian, Google is giving 2,000 of it's overseas employees a free bike.

So they don't damage their all important brains as they learn to ride the little darlings, each bike will also come with a helmet for each GooggleCyclist to wear.

I guess American Google Employees make enough money to buy their own, so are considered unworthy of this windfall. ;-D

Seems that Google is not being all that original with this idea, or with only targeting certain of their vast number of employees, worldwide. ;-D

Ikea got there 1st. ;-D

Carlton Reid has posted pictures of the bikes the Googlers are getting, and more info, on his blog here.

Tips of the Hat to The Bike Blog, and Adrian Fitch! ;-D

Urban Planning In Germany For a Car-free Community

USA Today ran an article last week on a new neighborhood district that is a green, bike-friendly co-operative, in Germany. To promote the privileges of car-free living, local authorities and urban planners have banned cars within Vauban.

It is an interesting experiment.

Bicycle Diaries has more, including pictures, and links.

Rampaging Santas!

Who needs a Sleigh, and 8 tiny reindeer, when you have a Bicycle? ;-D

Santas on a Rampage by Bicycle Diaries

Update on Santa Cycle Rampage 06 by Bicycle Diaries.

Official Website: Santa Cycle Rampage 06 in Chicago, Il.

The Queen of England Likes Bikes!

Today, the Queen gave top billing to Bicycles in her annual Christmas Message.

The relevant passage:

The certainties of the past are vanishing: we have a nuclear North Korea, a soon to be nuclear Iran, Baghdad collapsing in an orgy of violence, radiation poisoning around the corner from my own home; arctic ice disappearing fast; the largest producer of gas holding customers to ransom; central banks moving out of the dollar.

This is my advice: don’t try to predict what will happen; we are in a period of flux and forecasts are fruitless. For example, will our blessed Kingdom be hotter or is it facing an Ice Age, as the North Atlantic oscillator switches direction? We don’t know and both scenarios are plausible.

What we can do is become more self-reliant. It’s up to us restructure our lives in a way that we can survive strongly any of the shocks that will hit our country.

The bicycle can transport you everywhere, free from dependance from petrol, rails, pilots, etc. This is probably why so many people have started riding bicycles in London.

Let me paraphrase our great writer H G Wells: "When I look out of my window and I see all the people riding their bicycles, I do not despair for the future of the human race."

God Save the Queen! ;-D

A Tip of the Hat to Da' Square Wheelman, of Bicycle Diaries!

New Online Resource for Cyclists Debuts

Dave Mastio, Editor at BlogNetNews/BlogNetLife,  sent out e-mails announcing the latest edition to this new, and expanding, Feed Resource:

Something new debuted on the web this week: The BlogNetLife.com Cycling edition. You can find it here.

BlogNetNews jumps a generation ahead of other aggregators out there that just reprint posts and tell you which ones get clicked on the most.

We are going to use your feeds - and the feeds of top bloggers from all over the Cycling blogosphere - to create new content and information that will organize your slice of the Internet to make it work better for your readers.

Our current version offers these features:

1)      The day's top news - based solely on what news stories cycling bloggers are linking to - no matter what mainstream news source they're in.

2)      A cycling blog search engine.

3)      A quick guide to the hottest blog comment sections in the cycling blogosphere.

4)      A quick index of the day's most active cycling blogs

5)      A guide to the cycling blog posts most linked to by other cycling bloggers.

In one place, in one minute, you'll get an update on what's going on across the blogosphere. And your readers will be able to find the best cycling-related content - not based on random voters or some editor's choices - but based on the real actions of your fellow bloggers and their readers.

Our theory is simple: We think our tools will help new blog readers find the best content fast. A good experience means they'll come back - to you and to us. We also think a quick grasp of what's going on in the blogosphere will help you get more out of the time you spend blogging.

I hope you're interested in what we're doing. Please understand though, the site is new and the programming is still being tweaked and tested - in short all the parts are in motion. In order to quickly improve the site, we want your feedback. Write directly to me at editor@blognetnews.com.

Best,

Dave Mastio

BlogNetNews.com
We Serve Blogging

I am very honored that my feed is a part of this resource ( I've included a link in my Blogroll, and have added thri search tool as well. ), and heartily welcome 1st time, and returning, visitors, encouraging you all to explore what I have to offer, and not be shy about leaving comments. ;-D

I have been trying for a few years now to spread the word about my fellow BikeBloggers, trying to use ideas culled from my experieces with mainstream blogging, with limited success.

Someone with knowledge of, and experience with, the wider Blogosphere has finally taken notice of our niche and, if their efforts, and plans, bear fruit, it will benefit us all, doing far more than my Blog, with its meager 130 visitors a day average has been able to do in over 3 years.

From Norway Comes The Bicycle Lift Trampe

This is very interesting, and cool.

There is a town in Norway that has installed a lift to help cyclists get up a very steep hill.

Apparently the use of bicycles has increased significantly since the device was installed.

The inventor of the Bicycle Lift and the owner of the company Design Management AS, Jarle Wanvik, is a true bicycle enthusiast. He always finds an excuse for parking his car and using his bicycle instead.

In daily transport to and from work, to the shopping center etc., it is uncomfortable to be too warm and sweaty. In 1992, Wanvik got luminous visions about a bicycle lift that could carry cyclists uphill. Inspired by the ski lift technology, he visualized a lift design by which the cyclists could be pushed uphill without having to descend the bicycle.

This Lift has been in use since 1993, and the website has photos, videos, FAQ''s, and more.

The Bicycle Lift.

A Tip of the Bike Helmet to Peter May!

Pedals Around the World

Pedals Around the World is a new program from HWIP ( His Work In Progress ), of Pennsylvania, designed to let kids help other kids in need.

Children do this by donating (good condition) bicycles they've outgrown.

Volunteer technicians at Endurance Sports make sure that the bicycles are in good working order.

Then, P.A.W. delivers the bikes to needy kids.

As a couple of kids wrote:

“As kids we sometimes take for granted the little things such as the privilege of riding a bike. We use them until they get dirty or too small and we forget that unfortunately there are kids out there that have less than a dirty or small bike. So, before you throw your bike away, remember this, one little kids smile can go much further than just a mile! “

Sam 12 years old and Paige 8 years old.

From the Summer Kick-off Announcement:

Hey kids, want to give your old bike a new home? Pedals Around the World is a great new program from HWIP designed to let kids help other kids in need. Through the Pedals Around the World program, we will collect thousands of used and refurbished bicycles to donate to people in underprivileged areas. 

Has your bike been sitting around unused for a long time? Is it time to move up to the next size bicycle? Is it time to get the latest in comfort, style and performance that fits your riding needs?

Pedals Around the World is collecting bicycles that are in good condition. Bike technicians will then make sure the bike is in good working order, and once they give the “OK”, we will be giving the bikes to needy kids in your area and/or around the world.

HWIP is helping kids of all ages from all over the world have a bicycle to get to school or work, and to just have fun. If you have outgrown your bike or do not ride your bike anymore, there is a new home waiting with a kid who would love to have it. We know not everyone can have a bicycle, but we want to make a positive difference in as many lives as we can.

Your bike finds a new home and you have helped make someone happy! Your donated bike will make a big difference in someone’s life.

More here.

Coca-Cola Donates to Rails To Trails

I knew I loved my Classic Coke for a reason. ;-D

This summer Coca-Cola North America donated $500,000 to support Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC) for grants to catalyze trail development and maintenance. RTC is directing the Coca-Cola grants to trails needing that final push to realize completion.

A prime example is the connection of the Silver Comet Trail in Georgia to the Chief Ladiga in Alabama. This trail link, 10 years in the making, will connect residents in communities from Atlanta to Anniston, Ala. Currently the Chief Ladiga offers 33 miles of rail-trails and the Silver Comet features 50 miles. When the link is completed, the trails will provide more than 100 miles of continuous off-road recreation and travel space.

Read: Coca-Cola Quenches Thirst for Trails.

Looking for Workers who Commute by Bus or Bike

Last month a new website was opened by the city of Corona, CA.

The city aimd to work with employers to offer this resource for people looking to skip the commute.

From the article by the Riverside Press-Enterprise:

Mary Blauvelt, senior human resource administrator for Circle Seal Controls, a manufacturer of valves and regulators for the military and aerospace industry, said she hopes to use the site to hire machinists and assemblers.

Blauvelt said hiring local people would save employees gas costs and enable them to use the city bus system or ride a bike to work. Without having to brave crowded freeways, the hope is that it also would help ensure they get to work on time, she said.

Very interesting.

Charleston sees rise in Bike Sales

High gas prices continue to drive more folks to take up cycling to save money, and improve their health.

Take South Carolina for example:

Charleston bike stores have seen a rapid rise in bike sales over the past year or so, an increase some say is due largely to the swelling price of gas.

In 2004, one of Charleston's largest bike dealers sold about five of the new hybrid bikes -- a cross between a mountain bike and a road bike -- made especially for the energy conscious to commute to work.

Last year, the number sold had jumped to 100.

Charleston Bicycle Center has seen an increasing number of customers who venture in with hopes of saving money on gas by making the trek to work on two wheels.

"They're coming in to buy and they're people who haven't rode before," said Dan Neal, sales manager at the Kanawha City cycle shop. "They're looking for the kinds of bikes that will let them do a short commute on a daily basis."

Nationwide, bike sales have spiked over the past few years, an increase that many in the business attribute to the explosion in fuel costs.

From New Jersey to Washington, D.C to Montana, bicycle dealers are reporting sales increases just this year of about 50 percent.

Don't get all excited: Freeways aren't going to be converted to Bike Lanes any time soon. ;-D

Full Story:

CHARLESTON DAILY MAIL ( 8/10 ): People turning to bikes for fuel costs, health concerns by Kris Wise.

New Book Provides A New Angle on High Gas Prices Story

***UPDATE- 8/16***

***A Hearty Welcome to Readers of "HOW TO LIVE WELL...", and All Folks Coming Here From a Wide Range of Online Searches, Including the Name of the Author of the Book. A Good Place to Introduce Yourself to What I have to offer is This Post.***

PAGE 92, of HOW TO LIVE WELL...:

Car-Free in Santa Ana, CA:

As our freeways become more clogged, many commuters realize the benefits of taking the bus, commuter rail, and subway. In Southern California , often the commute time is equal to, or shorter than by car. I utilize transit agencies in 5 counties to go whereever I want, without the hassles that car drivers deal with. I carry around a book, or newspaper, or headphone radio to pass the time.

KIRIL KUNDURAZIEFF

The Cycling Dude ( Link to Blog included! )

***END UPDATE***

A long time ago, in e-mails long deleted, I was contacted by a journalist who had discovered my BikeBlog, after I contacted him about a survey he was conducting with my answers to his questions.

It seemed he was doing research for a book on how to survive with less use of a car, or without one entirely.

Apparently he had become car-free, and had begun cycling, and using Mass Transit, in recent years, and this helped give him the ideas that led to this book.

One aspect of the issues under discussion, therefore, was going to involve Bicycling, and he wanted to ask me for my thoughts about various things since I'd obviously been on the road far longer than him.

From discussing this Blog, and its purpose, how long I've been a recreational cyclist, and how, and why I commute, to various commuting related issues ( By Bus, and Bike ), and more, I answered away.

At one point I was even asked to read the cycling section, and comment on it where I felt neccessary.

I don't remember having much to say, other than that I liked it.

I am extremely honored to find myself quoted in this new book.

It means a lot to me that, despite my not being some super knowledgeable cycling related professional, or semi-professional,  of one type or another, from the Advocacy end to Shop Ownership, or as expert as many ordinary Club Cyclists, and active riders, that he felt what I had to say was worth sharing with a much larger audience that a work such as his will bring.

I was not paid a penny for my contribution, and have yet to read the book, but it is on order, and once I've read it I will pontificate, here, about it, and what I liked, or maybe even disliked, about the little darling.

I wrote about this the other day, in relation to the kind words from Monica , of the LACBC, but it bears repeating again, in a slightly different way, in this case as well:

Encouragement like this, means a lot to me.

From my desk, here at The Maceyugoserbulgarigreekadonian Compound, I do what I can to make this site worth the visit ( And hoped for return visits. ).

Other than my stats, the only way I know for sure of its usefullness to others, is when comments are left to a post, someone links to a post, adds me to their Blogroll, or list of resources, or I get e-mails of various sorts.... including ones that led to my inclusion in this new book.

But enough about me!

What follows is the OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE  for this book: How To Live Well Without Owning A Car: Save Money, Breathe Easier, and Get More Mileage Out of Life by Chris Balish.

If the following intrigues you enough that you want to read it, there is a link, in my sidebar, to its page at AMAZON. ( I AM an Amazon Associate, which means I get a small bit of moolah for each book, or other items, you buy after going to Amazon from my links. )

One more thing, and this may suprise even him, but before tonight I had no real idea who Chris Balish was.

It had never even occurred to me to do a Google Search for the guy.

And, to think this man thought I had something worthwhile to contribute to a work of his!

I am truly honored.

PRESS RELEASE: From Ten Speed Press:

The high price of gasoline continues to be one of the biggest news stories of the year. And reporters have covered every angle…except one.

The solution to high gas prices isn’t buying a hybrid vehicle, getting a tune-up, or drilling in the Arctic, the solution is getting rid of your car!

How To Live Well Without Owning A Car: Save Money, Breathe Easier, and Get More Mileage Out of Life is the only sensible guide to living in America without owning a car.

Six-time Emmy Award-winning journalist Chris Balish provides practical strategies for making the leap, including real-world tips and chapters on everything from car sharing and carpooling to car-free socializing and dating.

Can a person actually live in mainstream America without owning a car?

Yes!

Balish happily lives car-free in Los Angeles, California, and provides more than 100 success stories from people who live car-free from Boise to Chicago, Salt Lake City to St. Petersburg.

Ask yourself this: how would you like to get a $5,000 to $10,000 raise? Or maybe take a year off to travel the world or write a book?

According to AAA, the average American spends $8,410 per year (roughly $700 per month) to own a vehicle.

With this book, readers can slash monthly expenses, pay off credit cards, save for a house—even become a millionaire or retire early!

In addition, automobiles devour natural resources, spew toxic emissions into the air, contribute to sprawl and loss of wilderness, and make America dependent on foreign oil.

There’s no doubt that cars are useful tools, and that’s why this book does not suggest that people never use, rent, borrow, or ride in one.

But millions of Americans can save a fortune and the environment by not owning a car.

With How To Live Well Without Owning A Car, readers can be smiling on the way to the bank, instead of frowning on the way to the gas pump.

From saving money to building a better world, How To Live Well Without Owning A Car shows why kicking car dependency is the soundest and sanest lifestyle change anyone can make.

-----------------------------

Chris Balish lives in Southern California and is an award-winning feature writer, reporter, and broadcast journalist.

You can learn more about Balish and his book at www.LiveCarFree.com.

I look forward to reading this book, and commenting on it.

If you do the same feel free to return to this post, or my review, and toss in your own 2 cents.

Technorati Tags: Bicycling, Bike Commuting, Car Dependency, Chris Balish, Cycling, High Gas Prices, Live Car Free, Recreational Cycling

Bicycling Nuns Fail to Catch Sinner in Amsterdam

A few weeks ago this dude takes hundreds of dollars from a chapel in Amsterdam.

Normally that might be the end of the story until the cops nab the man, but not this time, apparently. ;-D

One day, recently, the man suspected of this dastardly deed was seen by one of the Nuns as he sauntered by the scene of the crime!

So what does the Lovely Lady of the Lord do?

Why she invites him in for a drinkie, of course!

Another Sister calls the cops as this is going on, but the dude gets suspicious ( What? Were they serving him Beer, or something? ), and runs off, stealing the Bicycle of a passer[by to make his getaway.

Except that the Lordly Lovelies, apparently devoted watchers of the annual Tour de France, were hardy bicyclists in their own right and so, hopping into the saddles of their trusty steeds, gave chase!

They tried to grab the miscreant, but he lost them in a residential neighborhood, and a search by the cops failed to locate him.

Must have been God's Will, or something. ;-D

Word is the Nuns did a 50 mile bike ride around town as penance for being, they believe, too slow, and out of shape, having not exercised since bef