Bike 2 Work Day IV

The 4th annual Bike 2 Work Day cruised smoothly -- but windily -- to completion here in Carbondale. Thanks to everyone who participated; especially these Town Square restaurants (Longbranch, Thai Taste, and Newell House) and all the bicyclists who braved strong winds to ride to work -- and then pedal to the Town Square Pavilion over the noon hour.

Also helpful in making the event a success: Laura Chamness, who arranged for drinks and tables for the group, and Darby "Starchild" McGrann who entertained the crowd, and even got Carbondale Mayor Brad Cole to join in on a rousing version of a Sesame Street classic.

The trophy for riding the farthest distance went to SIH IT guy Stace England (yes, that Stace England) and the trophy for the business or organization with the most riders went to the SIUC Microbiology Dept. (yes, that Microbiology Dept.) while a special trophy was awarded to Jane Hinze, who rides her nifty recumbent bicycle (the one in front, with the windscreen) to work all year 'round.

In addition, several people were recipients of gift certificates for tune-ups from the local bike shops: The Bike Surgeon, Phoenix Cycles, and Carbondale Cycle, who also helped make tee-shirts commemorating the event available free of charge to all participants.

One of the highlights of the afternoon was receiving a message from the Chancellor, delivered by bicyle courier, in support of year round bicycling -- posted on the Bike to the Future blog.

More details and photos will be available later today or tomorrow -- including a funny video clip of the Mayor /StarChild 'duet'.