- TheThinkTank - lists.bikecollectives.org

Re: [TheThinkTank] Database suggestions
by Sam Haraldson 16 Feb '15

16 Feb '15

> > ...organize our infrastructure by putting everything we can into a > database (volunteer information, inventory, bike donations, events, > individual donations, memberships, etc). We've been looking into CiviCRM, > and getting an external host for that, but before we commit to anything I > am hoping to hear any feedback/comments anyone might have on what systems > you are using?? Thank you! > Lauren, What is your current system? Are you tracking on paper, in a spreadsheet, something else, possibly not at all? We have operated out of a simple shared spreadsheet (Google Docs) since 2009 and have found it to work acceptably and are only now 5+ years later thinking about getting more serious about that side of our operations. I am a firm believer of getting a system dialed in using as simple a method as possible and then figuring out how to map that onto a true software solution rather than finding a software first and trying to make it work for your needs. Best of luck in sorting out your needs. Cheers, Sam Bozeman, MT -- http://bozemanbikekitchen.org ____________________________________ The ThinkTank mailing List <a href="http://lists.bikecollectives.org/options.cgi/thethinktank-bikecollectives.o…">Unsubscribe from this list</a>

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Outcomes & Outputs
by Justin Smith 16 Feb '15

16 Feb '15

We'd really appreciate any data, information, stories and so forth on the impact, outcomes and outputs of other bike cooperatives, collectives, earn-a-bike and youth education/repair programs, especially with regard to the medium and long-term (please indicate the period of time since medium and long-term is open to interpretation). Many thanks, -- Justin Smith Bike Erie www.bikeerie.org [1] (814) 580-9108 Follow us on Facebook [2] & Twitter [3]! Links: ------ [1] http://www.bikeerie.org/ [2] http://box809.bluehost.com/facebook.com/BikeErie [3] http://box809.bluehost.com/twitter.com/BikeErie ____________________________________ The ThinkTank mailing List <a href="http://lists.bikecollectives.org/options.cgi/thethinktank-bikecollectives.o…">Unsubscribe from this list</a>

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Database suggestions
by Laura Biren 14 Feb '15

14 Feb '15

Hi all, I am interning at a volunteer-run non-profit called the Community Bike Project in Bellows Falls, VT. We've been around about a year and a half now and have been quite successful! We're excited for what the future holds but one thing we are trying to do now is organize our infrastructure by putting everything we can into a database (volunteer information, inventory, bike donations, events, individual donations, memberships, etc). We've been looking into CiviCRM, and getting an external host for that, but before we commit to anything I am hoping to hear any feedback/comments anyone might have on what systems you are using?? Thank you! -- Laura Biren bfbike.org 617 939 4330 ____________________________________ The ThinkTank mailing List <a href="http://lists.bikecollectives.org/options.cgi/thethinktank-bikecollectives.o…">Unsubscribe from this list</a>

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Corvallis Bicycle Collective is Hiring a Part Time Shop Manager
by Corvallis Bike Collective 14 Feb '15

14 Feb '15

Hey there Think-Tankers, Long time reader, first time poster. It's a great resource you have here. We just want you to know, for those of you in the Pacific Northwest, who want to come out this way, or who know someone here who would make a good fit, the *Corvallis (Oregon) Bicycle Collective is hiring a part time "Shop Czar."* The Shop Czar position is a combination of teaching, mechanics, volunteer management, and shop organization. To learn more about the details of this position and our organization, please visit our website. <http://www.corvallisbikes.org/were-hiring.html> --Bobby Mauger, Treasurer *Corvallis Bicycle Collective* www.CorvallisBikes.org <http://www.corvallisbikes.org/> Twitter @cvoBikes <http://twitter.com/cvobikes> *Hours & Directions to Our Shop <http://www.corvallisbikes.org/location--hours.html>* *(541) 224-6885* ____________________________________ The ThinkTank mailing List <a href="http://lists.bikecollectives.org/options.cgi/thethinktank-bikecollectives.o…">Unsubscribe from this list</a>

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Fwd: NYBC Seeking Executive Director
by Matthew VanSlyke 14 Feb '15

14 Feb '15

Greetings ThinkTank, The New York Bicycling Coalition is seeking an Executive Director. Here's a chance to get involved with statewide and local bike advocacy...if you're into that sort of thing! -- *Matt VanSlyke* *Utica Bike Rescue* *714 Washington Street, Utica, NY 13502* *315.525.9554* *matt(a)uticabikerescue.org <matt(a)uticabikerescue.org>* *www.uticabikerescue.org <http://www.uticabikerescue.org/>* *www.facebook.com/uticabikerescue <http://www.facebook.com/uticabikerescue>* *Learn. Earn. Ride.* *“A citizen on a $30 bicycle is as important as one in a $30,000 car.”* * - Enrique Penalosa on building protected bikeways in cities, Sept 2013* February 13, 2015 *The New York Bicycling Coalition (NYBC), a twenty-five old non-profit organization based in Albany, New York, is seeking a full-time Executive Director.* Since 1990, New York Bicycling Coalition (NYBC) has served the State of New York and its residents by providing a clear and consistent voice for the interests of people who ride bikes and by promoting the safe use of the bicycle for transportation, recreation, health, and tourism. We are seeking a highly energetic, motivated and innovative individual with a proven commitment to cycling and NYBC's mission to create an improved, safer environment for bicycling throughout New York State. The successful candidate will lead our statewide efforts promoting safe biking and walking, and will represent the need for safe bicycling for both transportation and recreation to elected officials at the state and national level, state agencies, private interests and the public. Candidate must have excellent verbal and written communication skills; demonstrated leadership and experience in the areas of legislative and policy advocacy, program management and grant writing, fundraising, and membership development. The ideal candidate will have the ability to establish positive relationships with the bicycling community across the state, including bicycle clubs, advocacy organizations, retailers, tourism promotion agencies and individual cyclists, to increase member recruitment opportunities and improve engagement with current members to maximize their retention. The Executive Director will work closely with NYBC Board Members and volunteers. This is a telecommuting position that requires frequent travel to Albany and throughout the state. *Responsibilities:* - Administration of federal Highway Safety grant from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to develop and implement programs to reduce bicyclist fatalities and injuries in New York State - Serve as statewide bicycle safety representative for Governor's Traffic Safety Committee - Plan and execute advocacy campaigns at the state and federal level to advance pro- bicycling legislation, policy and funding - Build multi-sector partnerships to promote bicycle tourism and improve rail transportation options for bicycle tourists in New York State - Oversee all aspects of non-profit organizational administration, including daily operations, financial management, grant reporting, communications, fundraising and membership development *Qualifications:* The ideal candidate will have: - College degree or equivalent relevant work experience. Professional experience in the non-profit sector preferred. - Passion for bicycling and a strong commitment to the NYBC mission is a must. - Strong understanding of bicycling, pedestrian and transportation issues. This includes the ability to manage advocacy campaigns and plan projects. - Ability to plan and budget, evaluate operations and programs, and control spending. E/D must also be able to manage outside consultants as well as full and part-time paid staff. - Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including demonstrated capacity to work collaboratively with a wide range of public and private interests - Excellent time management and organizational skills and the ability to work independently. - Experience and comfort working with computer technology and web-based programs - (Microsoft Office; Quickbooks; WordPress; CRM; Voter Voice; Facebook, Twitter). - Flexibility to pitch in wherever needed in a small organization. *Pay and Benefits:* - Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience. - Health insurance stipend, plus paid vacation and holidays. - Start date - April/May 2015 *To Apply:* Please submit the following to Paul Winkeller, NYBC Board President, at paul(a)nybc.net - A resume and cover letter explaining your interest in NYBC and why you are a great candidate for this position (please include references) - Two writing samples for which you were the sole author (approximately 500-1000 words- links are acceptable) NYBC | PO Box 8868, Albany, New York, 12208 | www.nybc.net [image: Like us on Facebook] <http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001aTzt6ANihpj-LRyzlsqR1EEqJ-ajRTvtZDXfX_jpB_q9…> [image: Follow us on Twitter] <http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001aTzt6ANihpj-LRyzlsqR1EEqJ-ajRTvtZDXfX_jpB_q9…> ____________________________________ The ThinkTank mailing List <a href="http://lists.bikecollectives.org/options.cgi/thethinktank-bikecollectives.o…">Unsubscribe from this list</a>

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Re: [TheThinkTank] Logical Work Flow and Bike Tags
by Tegan Moss [B!KE] 14 Feb '15

14 Feb '15

Hi David, We use the attached form for volunteer projects, a staff mechanic always does a once over after the build is finished. We always check if the seatpost is stuck before starting a build! Another think that we have found really helpful is that B!KE also has a color code system on bike tags. We print on a five pack of color paper and each color means something: Orange, as is bike; Green, refurbished bike; Yellow, bike in progress; Pink, members bike (not for sale); Purple, EAB project (not for sale). Hope that helps! Best, Tegan -- B!KE: The Peterborough Community Bike Shop 336 Rubidge St, Peterborough ON (705) 775-7227 communitybikeshop.org ____________________________________ The ThinkTank mailing List <a href="http://lists.bikecollectives.org/options.cgi/thethinktank-bikecollectives.o…">Unsubscribe from this list</a>

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Boise Bicycle Project: Hiring Full Time Volunteer Coordinator
by Jimmy Hallyburton 14 Feb '15

14 Feb '15

BBPs all-star Volunteer Coordinator, Clint Watson, will be taking over as Director of Ogden Bicycle Collective. Which means an opportunity for another great person to join the BBP team. *Full Job positing here, or see brief description below* http://www.boisebicycleproject.org/bbp/2015/2/11/bbp-is-hiring-a-new-volunt… *Our Mission:* *Boise Bicycle Project (BBP) is a community-oriented cooperative that promotes the personal, social and environmental benefits of bicycling. We function as a bicycle recycling center as well as an educational workspace in a diverse and non-threatening atmosphere. Through education and access to inexpensive bicycles we strive to build a stronger bicycling community* *Our Vision:* *Boise has the potential to become the "Bicycling Capital of America." We envision a community where everyone, regardless of income, can enjoy all of the empowering benefits of bicycling. We are doing our darnedest to help Boise reach that potential every day.* *The Position:* *BBP hiring a new Volunteer Coordinator to grow, maintain, and foster our existing volunteer program. We are looking for someone who will engage and inspire volunteers to reach new levels of impact within the organization. The Volunteer Coordinator needs to 1st have a passion for people, followed a passion for the empowering benefits of bicycling. An effective Volunteer Coordinator will create rewarding and purposeful opportunities for the community to get involved with BBP, while working with the rest of BBP’s staff to serve its mission.* *Compensation:* *$26,000-$29,000 Starting salary, based on a 5 day 40+ hour workweek. Benefits include Health/Dental Insurance, Retirement Package, Commuter Support Program, Paid Vacation and Sick Leave * *How to Apply:* *Email your resume, cover letter (in your cover letter, please address how you identify with BBP’s mission statement), and three work related references with contact info to jimmy(a)boisebicycleproject.org <jimmy(a)boisebicycleproject.org>. Position open until filled; applications received by February 26th will receive priority consideration. * -- Thanks, Jimmy Hallyburton Executive Director Boise Bicycle Project (208)-429-6520 1027 Lusk St Boise, ID 83706 www.boisebicycleproject.org .……………......…….__o .………………...…….>,\ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~( · ) / ( · ) Join the Boise Bicycle Project's Free Spirit Newsletter list by going to http://www.boisebicycleproject.org/newsletter1/ <http://www.boisebicycleproject.org/Newsletter> ____________________________________ The ThinkTank mailing List <a href="http://lists.bikecollectives.org/options.cgi/thethinktank-bikecollectives.o…">Unsubscribe from this list</a>

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Request for ideas on Vision and Mission Statements for community bike workshops
by Bob Giordano 14 Feb '15

14 Feb '15

agree Ron. a general suggestion: instead of: 'We support safe cycling as a legitimate form of routine transportation' change to: 'We support safety for people on bikes as a legitimate form of routine transportation' or something like that. lots of 'talk' about the power of saying 'people on bikes' instead of 'cyclists' nowadays, which makes sense. -- Bob Giordano Free Cycles Missoula Missoula Institute for Sustainable Transportation Ron Kellis wrote: > Comment from the gallery: I've been, uh, subjected to these for over 20 years now. Meaning they can be really important for some folks as a focus > point, important for funding, and many feel the need to include every descriptor that can be crammed into the space available. Often, in my experience, this means few actually read it. And for others, well I volunteer as an instructor and self-help mentor. I know that fits in our mission statement someplace or we wouldn't be doing it. > KISS and short: > - We reach-out to help others learn to maintain their own bikes - We support safe cycling as a legitimate form of routine > transportation > - We assist members of the community who need a bike to obtain a bike. > Expand on that as necessary in supporting statements. > "*All great truths are simple in final analysis, and easily understood; if > they are not, they are not great truths."* ~ Napoleon Hill. > Just my $.02 > Ron > On Sun, Feb 8, 2015 at 12:19 PM, Andy Bakker > <andy.bakker(a)velocitycoop.org> > wrote: >> Hi Donnie, >> The mission statement that we use is: >> Our mission is to educate, encourage, and empower a vibrant and inclusive >>> cycling community through learning. We provide a non-profit, >>> volunteer-run, >>> educational do-it-yourself workshop offering training, rides, and events to >>> empower all levels of cyclists in building, maintaining, and embracing the >>> fun of bicycles. >> I've been asked by a few volunteers about developing a real vision or vision statement and I'd be very interested if anybody has something they'd >> like to share! >> Cheers, >> Andy Bakker >> VéloCity Bicycle Cooperative >> 2111 Mt. Vernon Ave, Alexandria, VA 22301 >> andy.bakker(a)velocitycoop.org | www.velocitycoop.org >> On Sun, Feb 8, 2015 at 11:55 AM, Don <dontito(a)videotron.ca> wrote: >>> Hi Everybody, >>> I’ve been hit-and-miss following along on the Think Tank for the past while so please excuse me if I missed any threads relevant to this request. Our collective is now in the process of redefining ourselves, >>> and >>> part of the process is coming up with a Vision Statement and reworking our >>> Mission Statement, so I’d like to ask for examples that work for other groups. So far our shop has been mostly about mechanics and not so much >>> about advocacy, though of course that could change during this process. >>> All comments and suggestions will be gratefully received! >>> Donnie >>> SantroVélo >>> https://www.facebook.com/SantroVelo ____________________________________ The ThinkTank mailing List <a href="http://lists.bikecollectives.org/options.cgi/thethinktank-bikecollectives.o…">Unsubscribe from this list</a>

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Bicycle activism around Palo Alto
by Fenton Heirtzler 13 Feb '15

13 Feb '15

Hello! A little under two months back, I moved to the Palo Alto area for a job. While it's a reasonable place to bike, it is just too vanilla in terms of bicycle activism. So far, I've only noticed yuppies and wealthy retired folks on overly expensive bikes. Are there any bicycle activism groups down here, like you have in SF and Oakland? Thanks! -- Dr. Fenton Heirtzler Phone: +1-301-312-5145 On LinkedIn <http://www.linkedin.com/in/fentonhorgchem/> Skype: fentonheirtzler Supporter of the International Day of Climate Action <http://www.350.org/> ********* ____________________________________ The ThinkTank mailing List <a href="http://lists.bikecollectives.org/options.cgi/thethinktank-bikecollectives.o…">Unsubscribe from this list</a>

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Letters of understanding
by Yvonne Rucker 13 Feb '15

13 Feb '15

Hello, My name is Yvonne Rucker and I have a cycling non-profit called BikeVON. This summer I will be providing cycling services to the community such as build a bike classes, and bike rodeos. I need a letter of understanding. Would anyone be interested in sharing the language that they use? I don't want to re-vent the wheel. -- Yvonne Rucker 248.225.0601 President BikeVON bikevon14(a)gmail.com Educate, Advocate, and Motivate Through Cycling *Mission: To provide the youth of color an opportunity to learn the core values of diversity and inclusion, a healthy lifestyle and exercise, safe cycling and cycling advocacy and the opportunity to participate in the Olympic sport of velodrome cycling.* This electronic message and all attachments contain information from the BikeVON of Metropolitan Detroit and its related programs. The message and attachments may contain privileged, confidential information or otherwise be protected from disclosure. The information is intended to be for the addressee(s) only. If you are not the intended addressee(s), any disclosure, copy, distribution or use of the contents of this message is prohibited unless authorized by the BikeVON or the intended addressee. ____________________________________ The ThinkTank mailing List <a href="http://lists.bikecollectives.org/options.cgi/thethinktank-bikecollectives.o…">Unsubscribe from this list</a>

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Bike overhaul sequence
by DCoppley＠intercitytransit.com 13 Feb '15

13 Feb '15

Greetings fellow bike do-gooder's, I am revising the work tickets our volunteer mechanics use during bicycle overhauls. I would like to structure the work tickets so that it encourages a logical work flow. My question is this; what is your preferred sequence of activities when overhauling a bike? Thanks in advance, David David Coppley Walk n' Roll Program Assistant Intercity Transit 360-705-5817 PO Box 659 Olympia, WA 98501 dcoppley(a)intercitytransit.com<mailto:dcoppley@intercitytransit.com> Find us on Facebook!<https://www.facebook.com/BicycleCommuterContest> [WalkNRoll_HZ_RGB] ____________________________________ The ThinkTank mailing List <a href="http://lists.bikecollectives.org/options.cgi/thethinktank-bikecollectives.o…">Unsubscribe from this list</a>

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Re: [TheThinkTank] New Supplier For Non-Profits and Small Shops
by Godwin ! 13 Feb '15

13 Feb '15

Hey folks, I'm a little unclear on the validity of this company. The contents of this email sound potentially like awesomesauce but the tone sounds sort of spammy. If anyone can vouch for or against them or wants to do a little research I'm sure everyone here is interested in hearing more. For now I've taken this person off the list and I'm going to send them an email explaining why. Mostly I feel that they shouldn't be in the direct line of fire if there is any negative feedback (as always, keep in mind the archives are public). Cheers, godwin. --- Original Message --- From: info(a)midwaybike.com Sent: February 11, 2015 7:18 PM To: thethinktank(a)lists.bikecollectives.org Subject: [TheThinkTank] New Supplier For Non-Profits and Small Shops Hi, I am Benita Warns, President of Midway Bicycle Supply. I, along with my spouse, started this company because most non-profit bike coops and small shops do not have access to wholesale distribution channels that are available to larger enterprises. Most of the large distributors require their customers to purchase a minimum amount of merchandise with each order, and the amount is too high for many shops to afford. Also, those large distributors focus on a lot of higher-end items rather than the basic repair parts needed to fix older, used bicycles. If your community bike shop or collective is incorporated as a non-profit entity (i.e., 501( C ) 3), carries liability insurance, and operates a physical location, then most likely your group will qualify for an account with Midway Bicycle Supply. We offer you a minimum order quantity of just $25 (plus shipping), no charge to open the account, our best price on every item (why should you have to buy 20 tires to get a price break?), and we give 10% of all income to charity. We also seek out hard-to-find parts for the kind of older bicycles that you service. We won’t close your account if you don’t spend enough money or order often enough. Our business is set up specifically to meet your needs. To apply for an account, all you need to do is to go to our web site at www.midwaybike.com and print out a copy of the application form, fill it out, and either scan it and attach it to an email message, or mail it the old fashioned way. If your web site has photos of your location, just note that rather than taking new photos. Also, be sure to include your preferred user name and password so we can set up online access. If you want to know more before applying for an account, just call 651-955-1930 and you can talk to the boss (that’s me). I would be happy to answer your questions. I invite you to apply for an account with our company, and look forward to serving you. Benita Warns, President Midway Bicycle Supply, Inc. 506 N. Prior Avenue St. Paul, MN 55104 651-955-1930 www.midwaybike.com ____________________________________ The ThinkTank mailing List <a href="http://lists.bikecollectives.org/options.cgi/thethinktank-bikecollectives.o…">Unsubscribe from this list</a> ____________________________________ The ThinkTank mailing List <a href="http://lists.bikecollectives.org/options.cgi/thethinktank-bikecollectives.o…">Unsubscribe from this list</a>

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New Supplier For Non-Profits and Small Shops
by info＠midwaybike.com 12 Feb '15

12 Feb '15

Hi, I am Benita Warns, President of Midway Bicycle Supply. I, along with my spouse, started this company because most non-profit bike coops and small shops do not have access to wholesale distribution channels that are available to larger enterprises. Most of the large distributors require their customers to purchase a minimum amount of merchandise with each order, and the amount is too high for many shops to afford. Also, those large distributors focus on a lot of higher-end items rather than the basic repair parts needed to fix older, used bicycles. If your community bike shop or collective is incorporated as a non-profit entity (i.e., 501( C ) 3), carries liability insurance, and operates a physical location, then most likely your group will qualify for an account with Midway Bicycle Supply. We offer you a minimum order quantity of just $25 (plus shipping), no charge to open the account, our best price on every item (why should you have to buy 20 tires to get a price break?), and we give 10% of all income to charity. We also seek out hard-to-find parts for the kind of older bicycles that you service. We won’t close your account if you don’t spend enough money or order often enough. Our business is set up specifically to meet your needs. To apply for an account, all you need to do is to go to our web site at www.midwaybike.com and print out a copy of the application form, fill it out, and either scan it and attach it to an email message, or mail it the old fashioned way. If your web site has photos of your location, just note that rather than taking new photos. Also, be sure to include your preferred user name and password so we can set up online access. If you want to know more before applying for an account, just call 651-955-1930 and you can talk to the boss (that’s me). I would be happy to answer your questions. I invite you to apply for an account with our company, and look forward to serving you. Benita Warns, President Midway Bicycle Supply, Inc. 506 N. Prior Avenue St. Paul, MN 55104 651-955-1930 www.midwaybike.com ____________________________________ The ThinkTank mailing List <a href="http://lists.bikecollectives.org/options.cgi/thethinktank-bikecollectives.o…">Unsubscribe from this list</a>

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Request for ideas on Vision and Mission Statements for community bike workshops
by Bob Giordano 12 Feb '15

12 Feb '15

Hi Tom, This discussion was started by Donnie at SantroVélo... they are reworking their own vision and mission, and asked for feedback. I think it is a very worthy discussion, as we all can benefit from updating the 'what, why and how' of our work. Or perhaps just the 'what and why' as the 'how' tends to be more goal and objective statement oriented... I've heard many different definitions for vision, mission, goals, objectives and action steps. The key might be to have deep internal discussions and see what makes sense on a local level. Thomas Martin wrote: > Hi all: > New to this list, and I have lurked for exactly 2 messages. > Pardon my ignorance, but is this vision statement for this list, or for a > specific org that is subscribing to the list? > Mission statements and vision statements can quickly become obtuse with big > words that no-one uses in the organization and your community. And a vision > statement by committee is how that happens. > But here goes my two pence: > Transportation and transit is routine, so further explaining it as routine > is redundant. And anyways, making transportation anything but routine (fun! > sexy! transformative!) is going to inspire people more than the routinized > use of our transportation grid.. > '_________ advocates safe and equitable outcomes for people on bikes as a > form of everyday transportation. We are a non-profit, volunteer run community co-operative that empowers people to repair their own bikes' . Or something like that. > I posted this on my Facebook page a few days ago. It's got some good suggestions for how and why language shapes the public discussion: http://www.peopleforbikes.org/blog/entry/how-smart-language-helped-end-seat… Tom Martin > Bike Program Coordinator > Portland Community College- Cascade > 705 N Killingsworth St > Portland, OR 97217 > On Mon, Feb 9, 2015 at 10:26 AM, Bob Giordano <mist(a)strans.org> wrote: >> agree Ron. >> a general suggestion: >> instead of: >> 'We support safe cycling as a legitimate form of routine transportation' >> change to: >> 'We support safety for people on bikes as a legitimate form of routine transportation' >> or something like that. lots of 'talk' about the power of saying 'people >> on bikes' instead of 'cyclists' nowadays, which makes sense. >> -- >> Bob Giordano >> Free Cycles Missoula >> Missoula Institute for Sustainable Transportation >> Ron Kellis wrote: >> > Comment from the gallery: I've been, uh, subjected to these for over >> 20 >> years now. Meaning they can be really important for some folks as a focus >> > point, important for funding, and many feel the need to include every >> descriptor that can be crammed into the space available. Often, in my experience, this means few actually read it. And for others, well I volunteer as an instructor and self-help mentor. I know that fits in our >> mission statement someplace or we wouldn't be doing it. >> > KISS and short: >> > - We reach-out to help others learn to maintain their own bikes - >> We >> support safe cycling as a legitimate form of routine >> > transportation >> > - We assist members of the community who need a bike to obtain a >> bike. >> > Expand on that as necessary in supporting statements. >> > "*All great truths are simple in final analysis, and easily >> understood; >> if >> > they are not, they are not great truths."* ~ Napoleon Hill. >> > Just my $.02 >> > Ron >> > On Sun, Feb 8, 2015 at 12:19 PM, Andy Bakker >> > <andy.bakker(a)velocitycoop.org> >> > wrote: >> >> Hi Donnie, >> >> The mission statement that we use is: >> >> Our mission is to educate, encourage, and empower a vibrant and >> inclusive >> >>> cycling community through learning. We provide a non-profit, volunteer-run, >> >>> educational do-it-yourself workshop offering training, rides, and >> events to >> >>> empower all levels of cyclists in building, maintaining, and >> embracing >> the >> >>> fun of bicycles. >> >> I've been asked by a few volunteers about developing a real vision or >> vision statement and I'd be very interested if anybody has something they'd >> >> like to share! >> >> Cheers, >> >> Andy Bakker >> >> VéloCity Bicycle Cooperative >> >> 2111 Mt. Vernon Ave, Alexandria, VA 22301 >> >> andy.bakker(a)velocitycoop.org | www.velocitycoop.org >> >> On Sun, Feb 8, 2015 at 11:55 AM, Don <dontito(a)videotron.ca> wrote: >> >>> Hi Everybody, >> >>> I’ve been hit-and-miss following along on the Think Tank for the >> past >> while so please excuse me if I missed any threads relevant to this request. Our collective is now in the process of redefining >> ourselves, >> >>> and >> >>> part of the process is coming up with a Vision Statement and >> reworking >> our >> >>> Mission Statement, so I’d like to ask for examples that work for >> other >> groups. So far our shop has been mostly about mechanics and not so much >> >>> about advocacy, though of course that could change during this >> process. >> >>> All comments and suggestions will be gratefully received! >> >>> Donnie >> >>> SantroVélo >> >>> https://www.facebook.com/SantroVelo ____________________________________ The ThinkTank mailing List <a href="http://lists.bikecollectives.org/options.cgi/thethinktank-bikecollectives.o…">Unsubscribe from this list</a>

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Donation Jar at Bike Valet Booth?
by Ryan Feller 10 Feb '15

10 Feb '15

Hello all, We run a bike valet at a bi-weekly farmer's market, usually parking several dozen bikes in a few hours. Valet is free to use and staffed by volunteers; our organization receives no compensation. We are considering a donation jar to benefit the organization (mostly to cover promotional materials). However, we don't want to pressure anyone to donate, lest it discourage their regular use of our service. We're considering a small donation jar in the corner of our event table, accompanied by a sign roughly stating, "Bike valet is a free service! Donations to Human Powered Delray are optional but always appreciated." Organizations that do bike valet: Do you have a donation or tip jar? Do you request compensation from event organizers? What do you do with donated money? If it's relevant, we're a 501(c)(3) bike/ped advocacy organization. Thank you very much for your time and input! -- Ryan Feller Board Member Human Powered Delray www.humanpowereddelray.org (941) 894-4333 ____________________________________ The ThinkTank mailing List <a href="http://lists.bikecollectives.org/options.cgi/thethinktank-bikecollectives.o…">Unsubscribe from this list</a>

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Request for ideas on Vision and Mission Statements for community bike workshops
by Don 10 Feb '15

10 Feb '15

Hi Everybody, Ive been hit-and-miss following along on the Think Tank for the past while so please excuse me if I missed any threads relevant to this request. Our collective is now in the process of redefining ourselves, and part of the process is coming up with a Vision Statement and reworking our Mission Statement, so Id like to ask for examples that work for other groups. So far our shop has been mostly about mechanics and not so much about advocacy, though of course that could change during this process. All comments and suggestions will be gratefully received! Donnie SantroVélo <https://www.facebook.com/SantroVelo> https://www.facebook.com/SantroVelo ____________________________________ The ThinkTank mailing List <a href="http://lists.bikecollectives.org/options.cgi/thethinktank-bikecollectives.o…">Unsubscribe from this list</a>

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The Youth Bike Summit is just a week away! Please help us spread the word!
by Pasqualina Azzarello 07 Feb '15

07 Feb '15

<https://t.e2ma.net/click/2tybh/ac6fm/e39rob> <https://t.e2ma.net/click/2tybh/ac6fm/uvasob> *SEE YOU NEXT WEEK AT THE YOUTH BIKE SUMMIT!* We're just a week away from the 5th annual Youth Bike Summit and we have an incredible line-up <https://t.e2ma.net/click/2tybh/ac6fm/aobsob> of speakers, workshops, and presentations! If you haven't already registered, you can purchase tickets here <https://t.e2ma.net/click/2tybh/ac6fm/qgcsob>. Registration includes meals, more than 30 workshops and presentations, and all conference activities over three days. If you are traveling from out of town, we encourage you to take a look at this link <https://t.e2ma.net/click/2tybh/ac6fm/68csob> that details the different locations of the YBS, directions, + affordable accommodations. The 2015 Youth Bike Summit is hosted by Bike Works <https://t.e2ma.net/click/2tybh/ac6fm/m1dsob> in Seattle, February 13-15, 2015. Please help us spread the word! *Register Today!* <https://t.e2ma.net/click/2tybh/ac6fm/2tesob> <https://t.e2ma.net/click/2tybh/ac6fm/imfsob>*http://youthbikesummit.brownpapertickets.com/ <https://t.e2ma.net/click/2tybh/ac6fm/yegsob>* <https://t.e2ma.net/click/2tybh/ac6fm/e7gsob> *THANK YOU TO OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS!* One of the founding principles of the Youth Bike Summit is that it is affordable and accessible for all attendees, especially youth attendees. This is possible on account of our generous sponsors and supporters. On behalf of Youth Bike, Bike Works, Recycle-A-Bicycle, and the greater youth bicycle movement throughout local communities throughout the US, we are incredibly grateful! Thank you for your support! *THANK YOU TO OUR LOCAL SUPPORTERS!* After four year's in NYC, this is the first time the Youth Bike Summit has traveled. We extend a gigantic thank you to the local planning committee, with special thanks to Bike Works, Cascade Bicycle Club, Seattle DOT, and Washington Bikes! <https://t.e2ma.net/click/2tybh/ac6fm/uzhsob> *WIN AWESOME TIMBUK2 GOODIES IN #BIKEVALENTINE CONTEST* Here's how it works: Post, tweet, and retweet your pics and poems, showing love for bikes + biking. Tag your pics with @Timbuk2, @youthbikesummit, #BikeValentine, and #YBS15 and winners will receive prizes from Timbuk2! There's no limit to sharing the love! Contest ends on Valentine's Day at 3PM PST. Winners will be announced at the YBS. *More info can be found here: http://youthbikesummit.org/timbuk2-social-media-contest/ <https://t.e2ma.net/click/2tybh/ac6fm/asisob>* <https://t.e2ma.net/click/2tybh/ac6fm/qkjsob> *BIG SHOUT-OUT TO PORTLAND!* Thanks to BikePortland <https://t.e2ma.net/click/2tybh/ac6fm/6cksob> and KBOO Radio <https://t.e2ma.net/click/2tybh/ac6fm/m5ksob> for yourarticle <https://t.e2ma.net/click/2tybh/ac6fm/2xlsob> and radio show <https://t.e2ma.net/click/2tybh/ac6fm/iqmsob> this week to help spread the word about the Youth Bike Summit! We're excited to see you at the YBS next week, along with youth and adult leaders from Transportation Alliance, Multnomah Youth Commission, Community Cycling Center, Safe Routes to School of Portland & Elly Blue Publishing! Also, KBOO will be recording live onsite at the YBS to capture youth voices from across the US! www.youthbikesummit.org Youth Bike | Director www.youthbikesummit.org | Facebook <https://www.facebook.com/pages/Youth-Bike-Summit/230384430374509> | Twitter <https://twitter.com/youthbikesummit> *Youth Bike Summit | **February 13 - 15, 2015 | Bike Works | Seattle, WA* *Youth Bike transforms our local communities and strengthens our national movement by empowering bicycle leaders.* ____________________________________ The ThinkTank mailing List <a href="http://lists.bikecollectives.org/options.cgi/thethinktank-bikecollectives.o…">Unsubscribe from this list</a>

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NYS Meeting of Commuity Bike Shops
by breathingplanet . 06 Feb '15

06 Feb '15

Troy Bike Rescue and newly created Electric City Bike Rescue are hosting an Upstate New York Bike Summit! Community Bike Shops (a.k.a. Bike Rescues) from the Tri-cities area of Albany, Schenectady, and Troy will be present as well as Bike Rescues from Utica, Ithaca, Rochester, and Buffalo. This will be the first gathering for some of these organizations and a reunion for some of the Bike Rescues that participated in TBR's Bike!Bike! event a couple years ago. Topics will range from Best Practices on how to form, organize and operate a community bike shop to how the community bike shops can work with NYBC and other advocates to best promote bicycle rescue, restoration and utilization for transportation and recreation. The meeting will be held at the Schenectady Central Library on Saturday February 21st from 11am to 4pm. If you represent a community-based bicycle program or shop and wish to attend, please contact Mike at rozdol(a)yahoo.com. They have a large room reserved and have room for you! ____________________________________ The ThinkTank mailing List <a href="http://lists.bikecollectives.org/options.cgi/thethinktank-bikecollectives.o…">Unsubscribe from this list</a>

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Earn-A-Bike Program Registration Form Templates
by Najari Smith 06 Feb '15

06 Feb '15

Hi All, Me and my team have started an youth Earn-A-Bike Program but we need some registration forms for parents to fill out. Any other accompanying forms and words of wisdom are very welcome. Thanks for you help! Najari -- Najari Smith 510.255.0625 Executive Director Rich City RIDES <http://richcityrides.org/> P.O. Box 2968 *RICHMOND*, CA 94801 Our mission is to create opportunities for the most vulnerable members of society to use cycling to improve health, economic stability and individual and collective capacity. *Follow Us:*twitter <https://twitter.com/Rich_rides> *Friend Us:*FB:friend <https://www.facebook.com/rich.cityrides> *Like us:*FB:like <https://www.facebook.com/pages/Rich-City-RIDES/721409531207136> *Love Us:* don♥te <https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=V8PA3U…> *Visit Us at our New Community Shop Space located in the Historic Downtown Richmond.* *1500 Macdonald Ave. Richmond, CA 94801* City of Richmond Arts and Culture Commissioner Elected Chair Richmond Bicycle / Pedestrian Advisory Committee ____________________________________ The ThinkTank mailing List <a href="http://lists.bikecollectives.org/options.cgi/thethinktank-bikecollectives.o…">Unsubscribe from this list</a>

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World Bike Forum
by Tegan Moss 30 Jan '15

30 Jan '15

Hi All, In four weeks I will be at the World Bike Forum in Medellin Colombia presenting on a panel about "Bike Organizing". Are my co-presenters on this list serve? Who else is headed down? I would love to meet up with some other community bikes shop folks while visiting Colombia! Please feel free to reach me directly at tegan(a)communitybikeshop.org or 705-775-7227 if you are headed that way and would like to connect. Cheers, Tegan -- -- B!KE: The Peterborough Community Bike Shop 336 Rubidge St, Peterborough ON (705) 775-7227 communitybikeshop.org ____________________________________ The ThinkTank mailing List <a href="http://lists.bikecollectives.org/options.cgi/thethinktank-bikecollectives.o…">Unsubscribe from this list</a>

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Troy Bike Rescue
by Josh Bisker 29 Jan '15

29 Jan '15

Who are my Troy Bike Rescue folks? Email me off-thread please. Actual important thing. Josh ____________________________________ The ThinkTank mailing List <a href="http://lists.bikecollectives.org/options.cgi/thethinktank-bikecollectives.o…">Unsubscribe from this list</a>

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Portable Bike Co-op
by Justin Smith 25 Jan '15

25 Jan '15

We like the idea of having some sort of trailer, wagon or otherwise that we can take throughout the city to different neighborhoods, events and otherwise to help make bike repairs. We'd love your suggestions for what type of trailer to use, how to organize, actual plans and costs, your sources of funding, and all other advice and input you care to share. Thanks! -- Justin Smith Bike Erie www.bikeerie.org [1] (814) 580-9108 Follow us on Facebook [2] & Twitter [3]! Links: ------ [1] http://www.bikeerie.org/ [2] http://box809.bluehost.com/facebook.com/BikeErie [3] http://box809.bluehost.com/twitter.com/BikeErie ____________________________________ The ThinkTank mailing List <a href="http://lists.bikecollectives.org/options.cgi/thethinktank-bikecollectives.o…">Unsubscribe from this list</a>

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Fwd: The Community Spoke! is looking for new leadership or to donate our resources
by The Community Spoke! 23 Jan '15

23 Jan '15

Hey Everyone, It's been over a year since our last event and it is with mixed emotions that we announce that the core group that makes up The Community Spoke! is moving on to new things. We're looking for a new group to take and reinvent the Spoke and provide a much needed service to the Boston area. We have a full workshop of tools, supplies and parts and a reserve of cash dedicated to the project that we would like to pass on. This is essentially a "bike co-op in a box." Ideally, we'll connect with a new group of volunteers that would continue to use the Spoke's name and legacy and function in a similar way to the old group. If this is not possible we'd like to find an existing group or groups to give our resources to. To remind you of our mission, we are an all volunteer bike shop that provides free bike repair. We've always tried to focus on cycling communities underserviced by the bike industry and are committed to being a safer space. Our safer space policy is integral to our operations and our most important policy. We are also looking for a new home for H.E.L.L. <https://thecommunityspoke.wordpress.com/h-e-l-l/>, a free helmet program. H.E.L.L. and The Community Spoke! have been partners for some time. Included are dozens of high quality helmets and funds earmarked for helmet distribution. If you or anyone you know is interested in operating a free bike repair organization or absorbing its resources to your current organization please let us know! Familiarize yourself with our mission and points of unity at www.thecommunityspoke.org and fill out our application. Help us continue to provide the Boston area with free resources and promote cycling. Please spread this message to anyone who may be interested. The application can be submitted at http://goo.gl/forms/haIWLCmPi4 Thanks, Dora, Dustin, and Alex - core volunteer group of The Community Spoke! ____________________________________ The ThinkTank mailing List <a href="http://lists.bikecollectives.org/options.cgi/thethinktank-bikecollectives.o…">Unsubscribe from this list</a>

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Re: [TheThinkTank] Bike Tracking Tags
by David Eyer Davis 23 Jan '15

23 Jan '15

Hi Bayley, It's a good question. Long story short, don't put beginners in key decision making roles. Killing a bike is highly subjective: we kill most department store full suspension 24" bikes, for example, even if they're largely ridable but have 1-2 key needs, but would save even the grossest road bike from total destruction because they're so sought after. Try and have a core volunteer or staff member make the calls, then the beginner volunteer do the task at hand. Our mechanics use the first section of this checklist to determine whether or not to kill a bike: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1mvJGn6drZsb5L_kXiEFJUpHHAbmWGwZQzJqo7Yk… On top of that, we get so many adult-sized department store bikes that if the bike has 2 of the following issues, it dies: seized cables/broken housing, broken shifters, unsalvagable rear wheel, play in rear swingarm, missing components. We train people up similarly to you: start 'em with killing bikes, move on to patching tubes/fixing flats, then tuning kids bikes (without gyros/gears) kids bikes with gears/gyros, 24" bikes, finally 26" huffys, then everything else. Cheers, Davey On Wed, Jan 21, 2015 at 4:29 PM, Bayley Vanderpoel < bayley.vanderpoel(a)velocitycoop.org> wrote: > Davey, > Do you have a method of sorting the bikes after they're triaged, such as > sorting them by particular issue? > > I ask because our organization gets a lot of beginners. We decided to > train them by triaging all the bikes we get, then having them focus on > particular components each time they come in. > > The first day a volunteer might replace 8 bad tires on bikes, the next > time they might true a dozen wheels, then the next time they adjust a dozen > brakes. > > I'm struggling to wrap my head around a method which allows volunteers to > quickly find bikes with the component that needs work. I'd like bikes to be > fixed in a sequence but can't figure out the best way to sort. Anyways I'm > interested in hearing your thoughts. Thanks! > > Bayley > Velocity Bicycle Cooperative > Alexandria VA > > On Wednesday, January 21, 2015, David Eyer Davis < > davey(a)bicyclecollective.org> wrote: > >> Hi Johnny, All, >> Thanks Jonathan for the big picture perspective. It's helped a lot in >> Salt Lake, we delivered 2427 refurbished bikes to our community last year >> from that location alone, out of 2837 donated. >> >> Specifically, we've been using the Walking Bird inventory control tag >> <http://walkingbird.com/> to good effect, but haven't been attaching it >> to the bike upon donation. Our kids bikes and kill bikes (around 1200 bikes >> last year) duck that system, once a bike is donated it is triaged, sorted >> to be killed by volunteers, tuned by more skilled volunteers, or fixed by >> paid mechanics. Only the bikes fixed by paid mechanics get a walking bird >> tag. At this point you can integrate the system into your POS, since each >> walking bird tag has a unique number. We use the tags to track the bike's >> progress from mechanic to sales floor to client/customer, keeping the tag >> on file after the bike has left the shop. So if a huffy comes in, gets two >> hours spent on it, new tires and tubes and a brake cable, then is given >> away a week later, the director of operations sees that bike coming and >> going. We haven't integrated the system into our POS yet, rather we just >> keep the tags, the director of operations goes through them to reconcile >> consumables inventory and log mechanic efficiency, and keeps the paper on >> file in case there's an issue with the bike down the road. We will >> integrate with our POS as soon as we spend the time stepping it up to a >> functional computer based, rather than partial paper, inventory. I'll >> report back then. >> >> I believe they're available through QBP, possibly J&B. >> >> Thanks, >> Davey >> -- >> >> David Eyer Davis >> Executive Director >> Bicycle Collective >> c: 801-230-6308 >> www.bicyclecollective.org >> >> The mission of the Bicycle Collective is to promote cycling as an >> effective and sustainable form of transportation and as a cornerstone of a >> cleaner, healthier, and safer society. The Collective provides refurbished >> bicycles and educational programs to the community, focusing on children >> and lower income households. >> >> On Wed, Jan 21, 2015 at 10:54 AM, Jonathan Morrison < >> jonathan.morrison(a)gmail.com> wrote: >> >>> In my personal experience there is nothing new about what community bike >>> shops do. All those "ah-ha!" moments are usually when someone has >>> (un)intentionally applied an existing concept from another >>> application/industry to their community bike shop. So save yourself the >>> trouble and time of reinventing the wheel by actively trying to identify >>> those concepts in the first place. >>> >>> Our current Executive Director (Davey Davis) hit it on nose when he >>> claimed that *"this isn't a shop, it is a factory"* at least in terms >>> of operations management ( >>> http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operations_management). >>> >>> While I spent years in that shop, I failed to see it. Davey is a >>> genius. But the fact is, broken bicycles are the raw material that we >>> refine (in mass quantity) into a consumable product that is >>> sold/re-donated. The more successful Community Bike Shops (that help the >>> most people) are the ones that make that refurbishing process as efficient >>> as possible. >>> >>> Efficiency happens when you increase the number of bicycles that go >>> through the shop, while decreasing waste and the time it takes to for the >>> average bike to go in and out the shop's door. *A sign that you have >>> an efficiency problem are excess storage. *Especially if they are >>> stored for more than one "busy season". Given that some shops are in >>> seasonal weather, obviously things might stack up in the winter. >>> Accordingly, each shop will have a different averages and goals. >>> >>> So, what the hell am I rambling on about? >>> >>> *If you don't track the bikes (dates, times and stages), it is hard to >>> know how to improve.* >>> >>> If you are looking for a quick / fun / easy / socratic / fictional tale >>> to get inspired on how operations management might help your shop achieve >>> its mission, consider reading the, "The Goal." >>> >>> >>> http://www.homeworkforyou.com/static/uploadedfiles/User_569117112014E_M_Gol… >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> Sincerely, >>> >>> Jonathan Morrison >>> c: 801-688-0183 >>> >>> On Wed, Jan 21, 2015 at 7:45 AM, Nathan Wilkes <nwilkes2(a)gmail.com> >>> wrote: >>> >>>> I was thinking a simple numbered ID. >>>> >>>> Nathan >>>> >>>> On Tue, Jan 20, 2015 at 3:42 PM, Jonathan Morrison < >>>> jonathan.morrison(a)gmail.com> wrote: >>>> >>>>> What kind of solution are you looking into? >>>>> >>>>> >>>>> Sincerely, >>>>> >>>>> Jonathan Morrison >>>>> c: 801-688-0183 >>>>> >>>>> On Mon, Jan 19, 2015 at 3:33 PM, jonny b <jonny(a)goodlifebikes.ca> >>>>> wrote: >>>>> >>>>>> Hi Friends, >>>>>> >>>>>> Do any shops have examples of tags that they use to track who >>>>>> donated bikes, who's worked on the bikes, bike's state of repair, etc? >>>>>> We're working on creating something simple and effective to facilitate >>>>>> donor recognition as well as getting bikes effectively prepared and sorted >>>>>> for our youth programs. >>>>>> >>>>>> Thanks! >>>>>> Jonny >>>>>> >>>>>> John Barrett >>>>>> The Good Life Community Bicycle Shop / Two Wheel View / Barrett's >>>>>> Organic Berries >>>>>> www.goodlifebikes.ca / www.twowheelview.org / >>>>>> www.facebook.com/localorganicbarrettsberries >>>>>> jonny(a)goodlifebikes.ca >>>>>> 403.619.2648 >>>>>> >>>>>> ____________________________________ >>>>>> >>>>>> The ThinkTank mailing List >>>>>> <a href=" >>>>>> http://lists.bikecollectives.org/options.cgi/thethinktank-bikecollectives.o…">Unsubscribe >>>>>> from this list</a> >>>>>> >>>>>> >>>>>> >>>>> >>>> >>> >> >> >> >> >> -- David Eyer Davis Executive Director Bicycle Collective c: 801-230-6308 www.bicyclecollective.org The mission of the Bicycle Collective is to promote cycling as an effective and sustainable form of transportation and as a cornerstone of a cleaner, healthier, and safer society. The Collective provides refurbished bicycles and educational programs to the community, focusing on children and lower income households. ____________________________________ The ThinkTank mailing List <a href="http://lists.bikecollectives.org/options.cgi/thethinktank-bikecollectives.o…">Unsubscribe from this list</a>

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Re: [TheThinkTank] Bike Tracking Tags
by Paul Nagel 22 Jan '15

22 Jan '15

Jonny, Attached is the tag that we use. It was modified from the tag found in the appendices of Recycle-a-Bicycle's Tools for Life: https://www.transalt.org/sites/default/files/resources/toolsforlife/26netwo… I've also attached a tag we use for wheels and other items. We might seek to change the bike tag a bit so the tag slides inside a plastic sleeve, because even printing on more expensive cardstock, the tags can rip off the ties. - Paul The Bicycle Tree shop: (714) 760-4681811 N. Main St.Santa Ana, CA 92701info@thebicycletree.orghttp://thebicycletree.orgon facebook / on instagram / on tumblr / on twitter / on meetup Date: Mon, 19 Jan 2015 15:33:43 -0700 From: jonny(a)goodlifebikes.ca To: thethinktank(a)bikecollectives.org Subject: [TheThinkTank] Bike Tracking Tags Hi Friends, Do any shops have examples of tags that they use to track who donated bikes, who's worked on the bikes, bike's state of repair, etc? We're working on creating something simple and effective to facilitate donor recognition as well as getting bikes effectively prepared and sorted for our youth programs. Thanks! Jonny John Barrett The Good Life Community Bicycle Shop / Two Wheel View / Barrett's Organic Berries www.goodlifebikes.ca / www.twowheelview.org / www.facebook.com/localorganicbarrettsberries jonny(a)goodlifebikes.ca 403.619.2648 ____________________________________ The ThinkTank mailing List Unsubscribe from this list ____________________________________ The ThinkTank mailing List <a href="http://lists.bikecollectives.org/options.cgi/thethinktank-bikecollectives.o…">Unsubscribe from this list</a>

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