The Alice Awards & Auction, the Bicycle Transportation Alliance’s big annual fund-raiser and awards banquet, is the highlight of my winter social schedule; and I know that I am not the only one looks forward to the gala with great anticipation. I’ve been a volunteer at the event for the past umpteen years and this year I’m looking forward to enjoy the grande soirée as a guest. I’ve got a ticket reserved and, yes, an outfit picked out. This is one of those rare events where this bike shop gal sheds her jeans and SPD shoes for something a little dressier and that does require some planning. Like I said, this is a big event.
Alice veterans know that Bike Gallery is a strong supporter of the BTA and makes a major donation to the event each year. What are we donating this year? Well, I’m very excited to tell you that we’re donating one of Trek’s new belt drive bikes, called the Trek District. This bike is so cutting-edge that it’s not even available yet (they’re scheduled to arrive in our stores in April). Alice attendees will be able to see and bid on one as part of the live auction and the lucky winner will be the very first in Portland to own this uber-cool bike. If that’s not tempting enough, I happen to know that Trek is donating another very popular commuter bike – the Trek Soho; and to top it off, Ultra Motor – the manufacturer behind our new line of electric bikes – has donated the very slick A2B electric bike to the cause. So if you are shopping for a new commuter rig, here’s my suggestion: buy a ticket to Alice and come outbid the other attendees. You get a new bike at a great price, and the BTA gets a major donation. How cool is that?
Not in the market for a new bike but still want to support the BTA at Alice? Bike Gallery is donating an exclusive, one-one-one Full Bike Overhaul session with Portland’s Best Bike Mechanic, our very own Brett Flemming. During this session, Brett will perform a complete overhaul of your bike (click here to find out what it all entails), and you’ll be able to observe his magic and ask questions while he works. To completely satisfy your appetite for bike knowledge, Brett will also treat you to a special, cyclist-friendly lunch.
As you might know Brett also has his own bike tool making business, Efficient Velo Tools. His company is donating one of the sweetest little bike accessories you could own – a custom, handlebar-mounting flower bud vase. Believe me, nothing looks better mounted on your commuter than a shiny silver vase with a fresh flower. Tempted? Get your Alice tickets now; seating is limited. Don’t miss your chance to go to Alice and bid on these and many, many other fun, practical, and unique items.
See you there!