2012 Working Bikes To Do List, #1

Come In For A Visit

Our brick and beam building at 24th & Western is constantly changing.

Take the 'L', or drive over, or better yet, ride your bike.

Come in for parts, a bike, a lock, a helmet, a T-Shirt, or a visit with the staff. You will enjoy your time spent at Working Bikes and we will enjoy having you...

2012 Working Bikes To Do List, #2

Attend our Anniversary Party

Check the web site periodically for the posting. The date and time still to be determined. A guaranteed good time is had by all!

2012 Working Bikes To Do List, #3

Volunteer!!!!!

1). Shipping Partys

Shipping partys fill a container with bicycles, and parts for one of our partners in a developing nation. It's a bunch of volunteers all working together to fill the container as efficiently as possible so we can fit the most bikes. Lunch is provided afterwards. Come alone or bring members of your organization. It is fun and fulfilling!

2). Turn a wrench

If you have bicycle mechanic skills, volunteer your time to prepare bikes for their journey into their next life.

3). Misc.

Help clean. Help unload bicycles from donors vehicles to our dock. Help straighten. Demonstrate the bike machines to our guests. If you have a couple hours to spare we can put you to work that will make a difference every day!

2012 Working Bikes To Do List, #4

Host/Co-Host An Event

Starting in April, or thereabouts, there are multiple Working Bikes Events through the late Fall. The Top of the Food Chain, Host your own bike drive. With advanced planning, you can hold a bike drive at work, at your church, at your club, through a boy scout troop, at a recycling event, etc.

There are also multiple opportuinies to represent Working Bikes at a Green Event, or a recycling Fair. You meet people with similar interests while you pass our brochures to the event attendees.

Wear your Working Bikes T-Shirt. People always ask, "What's that all about."

2012 Working Bikes To Do List, #5

Spread the Word about the Working Bikes Mission

Working Bikes has a great mission, "give new life to old bikes and independence to those who ride them ... "

Every person I know, knows that I am an advocate for Working Bikes. People always say, "are you still doing the bike thing? I might have a bike for you." And I eventually work that into the conversation with every person I meet.

Continue to spread the word and results will follow.

Think Globally....

but act locally. Another locally produced Chicago product, with a bicycle theme. it does not get better than that.

Brewed in homage to the beer of Cologne, Krankshaft is a pale straw hued smile in a glass. We throw in a little wheat malt to round out an easy Santiam hop bitterness. There are no Köbes to serve them up, but you should feel free to have as many as you like.

Krankshaft Kölsch style beer goes great with fruit salad, sailing, pot stickers, graduation parties, gyros, kick ball, pistachios, cole slaw, Star Trek marathons, miso, rye vodka, canoeing, dinner waffles, dal, gelato, star gazing, popcorn, beach combing, barbeque, lawn chairs, chiles rellenos, muenster cheese, Black Jack, hummus & pita, pinball, guacamole, gardening, French Onion soup, and yoga.

Christmas

Merry Christmas to all,

from your friends at The Working Bikes Cooperative

Christmas Eve

"Twas the night before Christmas and all through the Co-Op, not a creature was stirring, not even Aaron the bike mechanic. All the volunteers were nestled in their beds, knowing that their hard work had helped someone less fortunate. And Amy in her kerchief, and Lee in his cap, had just settled down for a long winters nap.

When out on Western Avenue there arose such a clatter, that Raul ran to the front door to see what was the matter. When what to his wondering eyes should appear, but a sleigh powered by one of Lee's bike machines. With a little old driver, so lively and quick he knew right away it had to be Alan.

As he drew back inside, and turned around, Raul saw Alan come with a bound. He was dressed in fur, from head to his foot, and his clothes were tarnished with rubber cement. A bundle of inner tubes he had flung on his back, and he looked like a peddler just opening his pack.

His eyes, how they twinkled! his dimples, how merry! His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!

He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work, and filled the bins, then turned with a jerk. And laying his finger aside of his nose, And giving a nod, down the stairs he rose. He sprank to his sleigh, and fired up the bike machine, and away he flew like a classic Pashley. But I heard him exclaim, as he peddled out of sight, Merry Christmas to Lee, and Amy, and Raul,and Gabby, and Mike, and Gary, and Carle, and all the volunteers, and to all a good night!

Christmas Eve Eve

Be Creative
Be Humble
Be Radical
Be Ingenious
Be Sweet
Be Tactile
Be Merry
Be Astute
Be Special


Be Christmas

Still on the fence about donating your old bike?

Bicycles in developing nations can be used for much more than transportation. They make a difference in the lives of the recipients. If you can't drop it off, call us. We can pick it up. Happy Holidays!

The Winter Solstice

Tomorrow, December 22, 2011 is the Winter Solstice, the shortest day of the year. Lets all plan on recognizing it. Here's my plan. The weather has been very cooperative to the cyclists lately. I plan on taking a long ride. Arriving home, I'll be a little tired, maybe a little wet. I'll light a fire in the hearth, pour myself a Mild Winter, and listen to The Carpet Crawlers by Genysis. A great song, with the profectic line, "Weve got to get in to get out". That's is how I feel about Winter. Sure, there are plenty of activities unique to Winter, but Spring, Summer, and Fall have it beat. Let's celebrate, our days are now getting longer until June 22nd, the longest day of the year. Peace

Seasons change and so do....

our tastes in food and beer. I like to support products made locally. Given a choice would you purchase Ruffles potato chips or Jays potato chips. I buy Jays, a Chicago favotite since 1927. Same goes for our great pizza and beer. Keep people working locally and buy products produced locally, like Mild Winter beer brewed over at Goose Island since 1988.

Last minute gifts.....

Looking for that practical Christmas gift? Protect your investment with a Kryptonite Bicycle lock. And protect your head with a Bell Bicycle Helmet. Practical and affordable. See you at Working Bikes! Happy Holidays!

Free Culture.....

Looking for a cultural experience this holiday season that won't cost you a dime. The Museum of Contemporary Photography at Columbia College is Chicago's most distinguished museum devoted entirely to photography. Exhibits change every two months or so, often with photos from the permanent collection. Many of the photographers featured here were students of Aaron Siskind and Harry Callahan, guiding lights in Chicago and worldwide for their approach to "street photography." The collection also includes work by such big-league photographers as Robert Frank, Paul Strand, Ansel Adams, Diane Arbus, Garry Winogrand and Minor White. Connected to Columbia College, the museum focuses on commercial as well as art photography. Like teachers at the school, exhibits are concerned with issues of aesthetics and technique as well as the social and cultural implications of the photographic image, and it's free!

The Commitment

On my way out of the supermarket I pass a man holding up Tootsi Pops and melodically repeating the words, Childrens...Memorial...Hospital. When my kids were with me I'd give him 50 cents and he would give me 2 Tootsie Pops. I always wondered how much this little effort mattered. I saw him yesterday, but he wasn't holding any Tootsi Pops, or saying Childrens...Memorial...Hospital. I walked past him, out the store, but turned around and said I wasn't always able to give, but I thanked him for his committment. He said he had been collecting for 11 years. He recently met his goal of collecting $250,000.00. What an achievement! The power of one mans dedication to a cause.

Top Chicago Charities

One of the more unique charitable organizations in Chicago, Working Bikes, focuses on reclaiming and repairing bikes from disrepair (or even the trash) and returning them to the streets. Of course, only some of the bike-recycling benefits thrifty shoppers here in Chicago – bikes not sold here are shipped over to third-world countries in need of the transportation. Without any government or foundation support, the shop funds their actions solely through bike sales and individual donors. In addition to the nearly 5,000 bicycles distributed throughout the world, some 500 bicycles and wheelchairs are refurbished for donation to those in our own city – for city programs and refugees. If you’re tight on cash and still want to make a donation somewhere, check and see if you’ve got an old bike gathering dust somewhere – it can make just as much of a difference as your pocketbook.

This was posted @ http://chicago.cbslocal.com/2011/12/14/top-chicago-charities/ on December 14, 2011

Saturday December 17, 2011

A fundraiser for West Town Bikes after the Afterglow Cyclocross race brought to you by Cuttin Crew and Robots <3. The first race category starts at 10 AM in Humboldt Park field house. Register online now.

2 PM
Division Street Bar and Grill
2525 W Division Stret
Chicago, IL 60622

Bike Joy

Besides my full time job, I am a basketball referee. Yesterday I had games at the Joseph Sears School in Kenilworth, IL. I had never been to that suburb before so I arrived 45 minutes early to walk the neighborhood. Many beautiful and unique houses. But what impressed me the most was a full bike rack behind the school. Because of the great weather we have been experiencing the children were able to ride their bikes to school on December 13! A rare treat! Happy Holidays!

Bike 2015 Plan City of Chicago

The Bike 2015 Plan is the City of Chicago's vision to make bicycling an integral part of daily life in Chicago. The Plan recommends projects, programs and policies for the next ten years to encourage use of this practical, non-polluting, and afforable mode of transportation. The next meeting is Wednesday December 14th, from 3:00 - 4:30 at City Hall, 121 N. LaSalle, Room 1103.

7 Working Bikes Shopping days 'til...

Between now and the big day, Working Bikes will be open 7 days. Please stop in and share some holiday spirit. HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

If you are going to "bed in" for peace, bring your bicycle,,,

John Lennon died 31 years ago today.

My mother made each of her 5 children take piano lessons. I was terrible, and the songs in the John W. Schaum Piano Course were uninspiring. I remember asking my mother, "If you insist on me taking piano lessons, could I at least pick out some music I enjoy". I purchased the sheet music to Imagine. My piano teacher played it for me and commented how simple the melody was. I remember thinking, great, the simpler the better. That was 40 years ago. 9 years later some nut job guns him down. A toast, "to one of the great musicans, thanks for the inspiration".

Working Bikes Supports The Arts

Weather you need a bicycle for a photo shoot, or one of the thousands of bicycle parts we sell for one of your creations, let Working Bikes be your canvas. Artists have been know to frequent Working Bikes for material. And new bikes and parts appear on the sales floor everyday we are open. So stop in and browse. The volunteers are friendly and the artistic posibilities are endless. Happy Holidays.

Mark Your Calendars!

The 2012 Chicago Winter Bike Swap will be held on January 21, 2012 from 9:30 - 3:30 at Harper College. $5.00 admission for adults. Kids 12 and under are free. FREE PARKING!

The CWBS is returning for the fifth year as the premier event for HUGE SAVINGS on everything for the bike.

Not only is the Chicago Winter Bike Swap a place for some great bargains, but it is an excellent social experience for the cycling community as well!!

Re cycle-A-Bicycle utilizes the bicycle as a resource to foster youth development, environmental education, community engagement, and healthy living. Through retail storefronts, social entrepreneurship, and innovative programs, Recycle-A-Bicycle empowers the youth of NYC.

Another great organization, with a logo almost as cool as Working Bikes!

December 3rd is....

Today, in the great state of Maine, good folks are collecting new or gently-used children's coats or new, unwrapped toys. These coats help many families keep their children warm through the long Maine winter, and the toys will help make a happy Christmas for many children throughout the state. This campaign is a success because of tremendous generosity every year.

The spirit of giving back to the community is present everywhere. This is just one small example. We'll trying featuring similar events throughout the season. Remember, Recycle, Reduce, Reuse!

23 Shopping Days Left.....

If you are looking to purchase a bicycle for a friend or relative during the holiday season, please consider Working Bikes as a source for that purchase. We have many refurbished bicycles that come with a limited guarantee! If you want to purchase a bicycle and donate it to someone less fortunate, we can help you with that also. Happy Holidays!

World AIDS Day 2011

Today is World AIDS Day 2011. Here is what a concerned group of Californians are doing to help raise awareness and money to end AIDS:

The RIDE TO END AIDS. The ride starts in San Francisco. If you go the entire route it goes for seven days. First night, Santa Cruz, followed by King City, Paso Robles, Santa Maria, Lompac, Ventura, and winding up in Los Angeles.

You ride an average of 80 miles per day. The riders raise money and awareness for the HIV and AIDS Services of the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center and the San Francisco AIDS Foundation. All the Best to all involved in this fine cause!

Have an Epiphany, Ride a Bike

On this tenth anniversary of George's death.....

George Harrison had an "epiphany" of sorts at the age 12 or 13 while riding a bike around his neighborhood and getting his first whiff of Elvis Presley's Heartbreak Hotel that was playing from a nearby house. By the age of 14, Harrison, whose early rock heroes included Carl Perkins, Little Richard, and Buddy Holly, had purchased his first guitar and taught himself a few chords.

Pilsen, Heart of Chicago

Next time you visit Working Bikes be sure to explore the vibrant community where we are located.


Pilsen is the heart of Chicago’s Mexican American community whose wealth of restaurants and shops is matched by its cultural riches, much of which is found in a renowned museum. A recent influx of galleries has given rise to a bustling Chicago Arts District. The adjoining Heart of Chicago community has deep Northern Italian roots best experienced through its top-rated restaurants.

Come for the bicycles and stay for the cultural experience!

Thanksgiving

This is Thanksgiving Week.

It was said so well last year that we are repeating it here:

Thank you to everyone who:

- volunteers their time or money to support the mission of the Working Bikes Cooperative

- everyone who donates a bicycle to Working Bikes

- everyone who purchases a used bicycle from Working Bikes, and

- everyone who supports our partners in Africa and Central America

There is no better time than this week to tell everyone you know about the mission of The Working Bikes Cooperative. Whether you have an hour a month, or 8 hours a day, you can help us. You don't even need to know how to ride a bike or turn a wrench. Happy Thanksgiving!

Cranksgiving sponsored by M & M Cyclery

Cranksgiving began in 1999 in New York City by a group of avid cyclists to raise donations and supplies for their local food bank. Today, cities all over the country participate in this event on the Saturday before Thanksgiving. M & M Cyclery is very excited to be hosting their First Cranksgiving and hope to make it a huge succcess.How much does it cost? Nothing! Your donations are your entryWhere are donations going?
To the Fremont Township Food PantryWhat do I need to bring? Bike, helmet, money, something to carry items in (rack back pack, trailer)How do I play? You will be given a list of items to collect. Your items must come from 3 different locations listed on your route. The order does not matter as long ast you make purchases at each location. * you may purchase gift cards instead. How will the ride go? Arrive at M&M at 11am to check in, sign waiver, receive your item list and route map. We will all leave by 11:30am to set out on route. The route is roughly 7 miles of road/sidewalk. When you come back you will check in and weigh your food items. Then help yourself to warm beverages and snacks.Is there a winner? While you don't have to race, there will be prizes for the first people back as well as a Trailer division. (heaviest food collected wins the Trailer Division)What if it's Cold? Dress warm, Really Really Warm!Can my children come? Of course! We will have an abbreviated route for families with children on bicycles under the age of 16.What if I can't make this awesome event?If you can't make it to the ride we will gladly accept your donations all day on Saturday (10am-5pm) Anything helps!If you have any further questions please contact the Staff at M&M at 847-362-2451

Lest We Forget.....

The City of Chicago will be hosting a Veterans' Day Ceremony honoring those who have served in times of peace, as well as war. The event starts at 11 a.m. at Soldier Field.

We all know a veteran. Whether it be your father, an uncle, a friend, or a neighbor. On Friday November 11th let them know that you appreciate all they have done to keep this great land free.

Shipping News

On October 26th 15 volunteers at Working Bikes loaded up 450 bicycles for the Angola National Association of Support in Teaching and Instruction of Children. This follows the co-ops Mission Statement, Working Bikes gives new life to old bikes and independence to those who ride them...

Looking for some community service hours, or just an uplifting feeling of helping a really good cause, then consider volunteering during the next shipping party. Check the web site periodically for updates. It is a good time with good people. Peace

Next Year...

I was intrigued when I saw a headline on MSN, "Beer here! Six Brewery Rides. I clicked and it took me to an article appearing in BICYCLING.COM. Listed were six bike rides that incorporated terrain and a brewery. One of the rides takes place in Southwestern Wisconsin. The Tyanena Oktoberfest Bike Ride took place this past October. On top of the benefits from exercise and fresh air, the article also lists the benefits specific beers offer the bicycle enthusiast.

Cantillon Kriek is a lambic made with tart cherries, believed to reduce pain. North Coast Old Rasputin is an imperial stout that tops off energy. Full Sail lager cools you off. Celis White, according to British scientists because of its' low alcohol percentage is weak enough to hydrate. And Beamish Stout Dark are higher in disease-fighting antioxidants than light ones. For the entire article go to http://www.bicycling.com/ride-maps/featured-rides/beer-here-six-brewery-rides

Coming Soon!

The Bicycle 11 Film Festival heads to our fine city November 4th, 5th, and 6th for a long weekend of bike-themed films, parties, and other events that celebrate, and promote, the bicycle. The kick-off ride is Friday night, November 4th, from West Town Bikes to the Logan Square Auditorium, the headquarters for the film festival in Chicago, followed by movies and a Goldsprints party. There are more screenings Saturday, an After Party at the Darkroom, and a BMX BBQ Jam on Sunday. Get on your bike and head out to Logan Square!

For a complete list of events, go to info@bicyclefilmfestival.com and click on the CHICAGO link

Village of Mt Prospect to develop a Bicycle Plan

The Village of Mt Prospect, Illinois has partnered with consultants from Active Transportation Alliance and Sam Schwartz Engineering to develop a Bicycle Plan. The Bike Plan was funded through the Department of Energy's Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant program and was developed over the course of a year based on expert recommendations and input from the local community. With the feedback they received, a comprehensive biking network was drafted utilizing a combination of marked on-street bikeways, signed routes, and multi-use trails. The Plan is currently under review by the Village Board.

Eagle Scout Bike Drive

On October 8, 2011, a beautiful Autumn day, Sean Wybourn, of Boy Scout Troop 40, held a bike drive to benefit the Working Bikes Cooperative. Sean collected 62 bikes. Sean organized the event and did a great job. This type of Citizenship to the Community will go a long way towards Sean's efforts to obtain the rank of Eagle Scout. On behalf of Working Bikes, Thank You Sean, and Good Luck!

Pictured with Sean are Amy and Lee Ravenscroft of Working Bikes

Working Bikes at the DPPL Science Fair

The Des Plaines Public Library's Family Science Expo 2011 was a great success due to the combined efforts of all exhibitors, including Working Bikes. The exhibit by Working Bikes was a favorite among the crowd, which numbered over 400. The events attendees were amazed that a simple bicycle, found in nearly every garage in America, was able to produce electricity to power a stereo and a water pump. Several bikes were donated by the attendees of the event to assist with Working Bikes' mission to collect bicycles so that they may be used as tools of empowerment in developing countries. Thanks to the volunteers from Working Bikes for their hard work in making the Des Plaines Public Library's Family Science Expo 2011 a huge success.

article submitted by Lauren Alleman, Youth Services Assistant, Des Plaines Public Library