[TheThinkTank] Sopo Bikes Delivers First Adult Trike, Rider on Road to Wellness

[rachael spiewak]

Sopo Bicycle Cooperative

 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Rachael Spiewak
Tel: 404-392-4597
Email: rachael at sopobikes.org

TRICYCLE DELIVERED, RIDER ON ROAD TO HEALTH, HAPPINESS

May 14, 2007 -- Last Sunday, Sopo Bicycle Cooperative volunteers Rachael
Spiewak and Jason Deck delivered a bright green refurbished adult tricycle
to Marie Fievet.  According to her doctor, Fievet's life depends on whether
she begins to exercise.  Weight and a limited range of motion prevented
Fievet from getting started.  Now, atop three wheels, and sporting her
favorite color, Fievet is pedaling towards wellness.

Fievet's doctor told her to take small steps towards exercising each day,
which is "easier said than done," according to Fievet.  Income also limits
her options.  Fievet tried riding an ordinary bicycle, but balancing was a
challenge.  Fievet reached out to Sopo, and when the organization agreed to
help, she exclaimed, "I don't know how I will ever be able to thank you for
caring enough!"
 Building this tricycle was a community effort.  The frame was found on
McClendon Avenue and traded to Sopo for a set of wheels, which were used for
a float in peace demonstration.  The frame was painted by Tito Sands, and
the head badge was printed by IFO Signs.  Many Sopo volunteers, including 10
year old Sophie Deck, turned wrenches, repacked bearings, and rubbed rust
from the metal.  Jason Deck, who is working on Sopo's second tricycle for
his teenage son, put on the finishing touches and helped make the delivery.
Visit www.velospace.org/node/3100 for pictures.

Sopo Bicycle Cooperative is developing a sustainable alternative cycles
distribution program.  Sopo is seeking community partners for this project,
including human services agencies, advocates, and motivated individuals.
Sopo is also seeking more shop volunteers who can be present during regular
shop hours.

Sopo Bicycle Cooperative is a 501(c)3 nonprofit bicycle workshop.  Sopo's
mission is to create equitable access to bicycling by providing low-cost
bicycle maintenance services and education.  The shop is located in the East
Atlanta Village at 465-C Flat Shoals Avenue, which is situated behind the
main strip of shops.  Operating hours are Tuesday and Thursday nights from 7
pm until 10 pm and Saturday afternoons from 2 pm until 5 pm.  Visit
www.sopobikes.org for more information.

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