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