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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 20, 2005
CONTACT
A. A. Cushman
(617) 628.2200
mail@redbones.com
DINING AL FRESCO FOR A CAUSE
REDBONES 9th ANNUAL BIKE PARTY BENEFITS
TWO BICYCLE ADVOCACY ORGANIZATIONS
Davis Square, Somerville, MA - On Monday, May 16, cyclists will gather for Redbones 9th Annual Bike Party and Benefit on the street in front of the popular BBQ restaurant. The cost is $15.00 per person, paid at the entrance, and includes bicycle valet parking, a Redbones sandwich (meat or vegetarian) with fixin's, a soft drink or beer, and 2 raffle tickets. Proceeds are divided between two bicycle advocacy groups: MassBike and the New England Mountain Bike Association (NEMBA). Redbones is at 55 Chester Street, Davis Square, Somerville. For more information, click here or call 617.628.2200.
Redbones first opened the doors to cyclists in the spring of 1996 by introducing bicycle valet parking to diners riding to the restaurant. The free service, which provides indoor, locked space, is now available to riders coming to any destination in Davis Square. Robert Gregory, co-owner of Redbones and a mountain biker, initiated the parking because so many cyclists ride to the restaurant yet are hesitant to leave their bikes, including some very pricey models, on the street.
As a spin off, Gregory decided to hold a bicycle benefit during national Bike to Work Week celebrated every May. The first party, held inside, attracted around 50 people. This year, several hundred are expected to fill the closed off block of Chester Street in front of the restaurant.
"Thanks to the sponsors, we expect to raise over $5,000.00 again this year," says Gregory. From bike frames and handle bars to trail maps and T's, each sponsor donates close to $200.00 worth of goods or services for the raffle. Two raffle tickets are included in the $15.00 entry fee. Additional tickets may be bought for $2.00 or 3 for $5.00. Drawing for the prizes begins at 7:30 PM.
Redbones is the lead sponsor, others include Ace and Belmont Wheel Works, Alternative Needs Transportation, Harpoon Brewery, Hokey Spokes, Independent Fabrications, Kryptonite Lock, Paramount Bike Repair, Rubel Bike Maps, Seven Cycles, The Ride Magazine, Vintage, Etc. and, for the first time, McNeill's Brewery in Brattleboro, VT. McNeill's Brewer/owner, Ray McNeill, is a cyclist and NEMBA member which prompted the donation.
For a sponsor list with links to company web sites, click here.
NEMBA
Philip Keys, Executive Director of NEMBA, has been attending the bike party since year one. He says, "this event provides a great opportunity for cyclists to schmooze but, beyond that, it raises awareness about cycling and is a help to us financially." This year, NEMBA will use the funds raised to continue its efforts to promote and protect mountain bike access throughout New England.
MassBike
MassBike is the statewide bicycling education and advocacy group representing all riders - including commuters. Executive Director Dorie Clark says, according to the 2000 census over 12,000 people in Massachusetts commute by bike, a 38% increase over 1990. To insure safety, whether commuting or riding for recreation, Massbike holds workshops to teach cyclists how to ride safely and confidently. Putting proceeds towards the workshops is one use of funds raised at the party.
Redbones, at 55 Chester Street, Somerville, is open 7 days for lunch, dinner and late night dining. Take out, delivery on the Rib Rider, a custom cargo bike, and catering are available. Call 617.628.2200 or visit www.redbones.com.
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