BikeShare, a multiple award-winning bike lending program run by the Community Bicycle Network, must find a new source of funding or the popular program will shut down. BikeShare is Canada's longest-running and largest community bike lending initiative.

This week, the program received a Bicycle Friendly Business award in Best Overall from the City of Toronto. BikeShare has also been recognized locally, nationally and internationally by numerous organizations including Transport Canada, the Green Toronto Award, and the Stockholm Awards for Sustainable Development.

"We've won awards year after year from the city of Toronto, and have supporters across Canada and the world, but sadly this has not translated into a reliable source of funding," said Maogosha Pyjor, BikeShare's Project Manager.

In the fall of 2004, the Toronto Community Foundation launched a publication titled Vital Ideas 2004: Improving Toronto’s Vital Signs which profiles community initiatives and organizations that are making a real difference in Toronto. BikeShare is listed as one of the “effective programs that offer compelling funding opportunities for philanthropic support. The programs and organizations profiled in the report are indicators of innovative and successful initiatives undertaken across the city.”

November 22, 2004

To: Members of the Standing Committee on Social Policy
Legislative Assembly of Ontario
c/o Ann Stokes, Clerk ()

Dear Committee Members,

I am writing on behalf of the Community Bicycle Network Board of Directors
regarding Bill 129, An Act to amend the Highway Traffic Act, titled
"Helmets, vehicles powered by muscular power."

Here's an exciting new event that's truly one-of-a-kind!

Panel Discussion
Hydro: The Decline and Fall of Ontario's Electric Empire

CBN Speakers Series: Free event, open to the public

Transport Canada's Urban Transportation Showcase Program launched a Case Study Library today. BikeShare is one of twenty-five innovative approaches to sustainable urban transportation in Canada profiled.

That's right! Two events from the one and only Community Bicycle Network:

1. Solar Power Made Easy: for your home, for our city.

Free Presentation, Discussion and Networking
6:30 - 8:00 pm
Lula Lounge
1585 Dundas St. W.
Sumptuous Special Event Menu, all under $10