Carrie Blowers is a long time Bike Gallery worker. She and a big group of Bike Gallery staff and customers rode bikes in this weekend’s Pride Parade. I asked Carrie to share her experience. Photos are by Division staffer David Anderson.

Sunday morning June 20th,  Bike Gallery staff along with our friends and our customers gathered to ride in the the 2010 Portland Pride Parade.  Though the weather forced us under an awning while we waited to line up, the rain cleared and rainbows everywhere made up for the lack of sunshine.  Our group was full of excitement as we circled our bikes around and the crowds erupted with cheers as we wheeled past.  I heard “Go Bike Gallery!”, “Thank you Bike Gallery!”, and “More tricks!” as Amy Wantulok and Jay Graves wowed the crowed with wheelies, track stands and fabulous bike handling skills.  Jake Ryder, a mechanic from our Downtown location, brought his custom-made zebra-striped mobile sound system built into the front of a cargo bike and blasted dance music into the crowds receiving cheers with each new song.  It felt fantastic to bring our diverse group out for a party in the streets and celebrate the GLBT community who have played an important role in our company’s success over the years.  Next year we hope to see you out there with us!

Jay Graves pulls a wheelie!

Our DJ and sound system kept the party going!

Amy Wantulok shows her bike skills!

Our littlest member nearly doses off during the parade.