BikesToRwanda

Bikes To Rwanda Appoints New Executive Director

2010-06-02T09:36:00.000-07:00

For Immediate Release

Bikes To Rwanda Appoints New Executive Director

June 1, 2010 - Portland, OR –- Bikes to Rwanda (BTR), the international development organization providing Rwandans with sustainable transportation resources to enhance their quality of life, announced today the appointment of its new Executive Director. Brian Gilmore was selected following an extensive and thorough executive search process and will spearhead the revitalization of BTR’s bike distribution, workshop and maintenance programs.

"As a non-governmental organization serving communities across Rwanda, BTR required a combination of vision, passion and management expertise in its leader," said Tom Rousculp, Bikes To Rwanda's Board President. "Brian has just this combination. His experience in international development work and the cycling industry, track record of management success and commitment to capacity building will be valued assets in our ongoing efforts to improve the lives and livelihoods of Rwandans."

Gilmore joins Bikes to Rwanda with a highly diversified career portfolio that includes time spent in international development and the cycling industry. Most recently, he served as Program Manager in Sudan for the Swiss Foundation for Mine Action where he lead the organization’s efforts to establish and grow an indigenous humanitarian demining organization.

"I was drawn to Bikes to Rwanda because of their commitment to providing Rwandans with the tools they need to secure their livelihoods, ensure their economic independence, rebuild their lives, and their country,” said Gilmore. “The mission, the philosophy and the values of the organization are an inspiration and entirely compatible with my personal and professional orientation—never before have I had the opportunity to combine my two greatest passions in the way that BTR will allow. I’m very fortunate to have this opportunity."

"I am very gratified to have been selected as BTR's next Executive Director from a pool of highly qualified candidates," added Gilmore. "I look forward to working with the Board of Directors, the countless volunteers who have helped the organization to date, and communities worldwide to provide Rwandan farmers with the tools they need to succeed."

Gilmore has worked with a cross section of public and private sector entities to forge lasting partnerships on behalf of various constituencies. His career has been dedicated to advancing peace and security in post-conflict countries, creating programs and services that promote the development of indigenous capacity to tackle obstacles that stand in the way of successful post-conflict recovery.

He has worked with international, national, and state legislators to help shape policies in support of the Mine Ban Treaty and implementation of its articles. Gilmore holds a BA in International Relations from Syracuse University and is finishing a MPA with an international development focus from Rutgers University and lives in Greenpoint, Brooklyn.

About Bikes To Rwanda
During a coffee buying trip to Rwanda in the Spring of 2006, Duane Sorenson of Stumptown Coffee Roasters had the opportunity to sit down with coffee farmers at the Karaba Cooperative. He asked the farmers what their communities needed and their response was bicycles. Upon returning home to Portland, Oregon, Duane set about mobilizing the bike and coffee communities in the city on the farmers’ behalves. By October of 2006, Bikes to Rwanda was formed with the organization’s objective to provide cargo bicycles to co-operative coffee farmers in Rwanda. The goal is to improve quality of life in these communities through a bike distribution, workshop and maintenance program that provides transportation resources for basic needs and enhances production of quality coffee. For more information please visit www.bikestorwanda.com

BTR launches search for Executive Director

2009-12-02T21:05:00.000-08:00

Bikes To Rwanda would like to announce that current Executive Director, Clara Seasholtz has decided to move on to new endeavors beginning January 2010. Clara has held the position since the organizations inception in 2006. Clara led the way in building new relationships on the ground in Rwanda, opening four bike shops and sending 400 bikes to Rwanda. We are all proud of the work Clara has done to make BTR a recognized and successful non-profit around the world and we wish her the very best in her future endeavors.

Bikes To Rwanda is launching a search for a new Executive Director. Coffee farmers in Rwanda are still in need of bikes, there are new shops to build and stock as well as existing ones to maintain communication with. The potential for this project is just being realized and the opportunities to grow it are bountiful. If you are interested in learning more about this exciting opportunity please take a moment to view the job description.

Thank you,

BTR

2009-12-02T21:04:00.000-08:00

The Artcrank poster show in Portland on October 1st was an overwhelming success! From Charles Youel, the curator: "My best estimate is that something like 500 people came through The Cleaners and The Ace Hotel to enjoy the opening weekend of Oregon Manifest with a little free Pabst, check out a cool display of Keen and Chrome products, gaze in amazement at 29 super-cool posters – many printed by the rock stars Seizure Palace – and take home their favorites. I’m pleased to announced that thanks to your awesome work, we raised $1,000 for Bikes To Rwanda...As someone who lives for bikes and coffee, this a cause I'm proud to support." The San Francisco show, October 24th at Chrome, promises to be something pretty special too. A few of our old friends will be in the mix there including Jeff Hantman, Stevil Kinevil and Willie K. Bullion as well as many other talented, local artists.

Bike To Work Day

2009-05-15T16:53:00.000-07:00

BTR was out at the crack of dawn this morning welcoming new as well as seasoned bike commuters. Jonathan Maus from bikeportland.org gave us a nice little nod in his piece which you can view here.

I'd like to thank everyone that stopped by the table and chatted with us. I really look forward to continuing those conversations soon as we move BTR to the next level.

Thank you for your continued support and we'll see you on the streets.

NEW! T-Shirts at BuyOlympia.com

2009-03-28T10:03:00.000-07:00

BuyOlympia.com started in Olympia, WA in 1999 as a way to help their friends sell their awesome handmade items online. In July of 2008 they moved to Portland, OR and that's where we found them. Bikes To Rwanda is proud to say that BuyOlympia.com is the exclusive seller of BTR gear. We hope to have cycling caps available soon. They will be handmade and screened in Portland by Little Package.

So, go check them out and while you're there take a look at some of the other great stuff they carry including Queen Bee bags out of Portland, Nikki McClure from Olympia and McSweeney's.

Also, stay tuned for upcoming BTR events in Portland and the Bay Area this summer.

PDX Cafe Bike Tour!

2009-03-01T16:52:00.000-08:00

Bikes to Rwanda is happy to present a Portland tour of cafes in conection with the United States Barista Championships this Thursday and Friday, March 5 and 6th. The bike tour will showcase some of the finest cafes in P-town over the course of two day of riding. Thursday's tour will start at the Oregon Convention Center at 3:00 pm and will wind through northwest portland and end in southeast at the Bakery Bar on southeast Water Ave at 6pm just in time for the welcome to portland party.

Day two will also start at the convention Center and sample some of the finest northeast portland coffee house flavor. Wrapping up at the downtown Stumptown cafe at 6pm before a final ride to the semi-finalist's happy hour at Holocene in southeast PDX.

The ride will be open to everyone and is free to everyone. Please come and tour our fabulaous city by bike and ask us about Bikes to Rwanda.

Enjoy.

Healthy People, Healthy Places

2009-02-04T19:48:00.000-08:00

I spoke in Richard White's Healthy People, Healthy Places class again, this is the 5th time one of use from BTR has presented in this class and the students, all sophomores, always have great questions.

This time they were working with logic models and using the models to form their questions to me. They wrapped up with an Output vs Outcomes listing exercise that I took notes on and that showed that we are on the right track. Essentially our Outputs are the bikes shops, quality coffee and increased income. Our Outcomes are increased quality of life, higher prices paid for coffee and local economic stimulus.

Our next class presentation will be at Lincoln High School and we will be talking to the International Studies group on campus. That's February 25th. That evening we will be tabling at the screening of As We Forgive, a documentary about healing the wounds caused by the 1994 Rwandan genocide.

WEND Magazine + Bikes To Rwanda

2008-10-27T11:36:00.001-07:00

If you haven't had a chance to read the piece about BTR, written by staffer Anna Brones - it's in the newest issue of WEND magazine, a Portland-based adventure/outdoor/epic/chill/real-people type of periodical edited by our good friend Ian Marshall, then you should check it out on newsstands right now. You can find them online here. And pick them up nationally at these fine retailers.

Also, if you subscribe to this amazing read and use the code "BTR", Bikes To Rwanda will receive $ for each subscription! Thanks WEND.

Hope everyone is well and enjoying whatever weather mother nature is throwing your way. We're racing cyclocross out here in Portland and enjoying some sunshine. So go for a ride, surf, ski, skate or just take a walk for a change and read a good magazine when you get home.

Cheers,
Tom

Reno Poker Run - This Weekend!!

2008-10-22T17:04:00.000-07:00

Walden's Coffee House in Reno, Nevada
is hosting a fundraiser for BTR this Saturday, October 25!

Chalk full of exciting activities from bikes to coffee to beer and music!

Thanks to Joey and Tony and everybody at Barefoot Coffee.

Walden's Coffee House
3940 Mayberry
Reno, NV 89519

12noon - 5pm, this Saturday.

If you are in the area, hope you can make it. Should be a great event!!

Bikes to Rwanda & Ira Ryan Cycles at Oregon Manifest

2008-10-09T17:18:00.000-07:00

This great event is bringing some of the most incredible handmade bicycles from around the area and beyond. Including BTR's good friend, Ira Ryan of Ira Ryan Cycles. We hope to see you there. We'll be sharing the BTR story and raising some money with all the enthusiastic bike geeks in attendance.

Event is Friday, October 10 & Saturday October 11
Leftbank Greenroom 1618 N Vancouver & Weidler
10am - 7 Friday, and 10am - 6 Saturday.

Other activities for the weekend include:
Friday night Kickoff part at Weiden & Kennedy

Saturday night Rapha Roller Races at the Left Bank Building (NE Vancouver & Broadway/Weidler)

Sunday - Cross Crusade

Benfit Happy Hour, Film Screening

2008-09-30T09:55:00.000-07:00

Greetings all!
Been out of touch, getting things cleaned up after returning from my trip.
So begins the Fall/Winter event push to raise the dough for coffee farmers in Rwanda.
Those of you in the greater Portland area...
We'd love to see you!

Check out the details here.

This Thursday!
Plan B, Portland, Oregon
5pm-8pm Happy hour
8th & Main SE
*pic - coffee seedlings at the Coopac Washing Station, Lake Kivu, Rwanda

Time for Action - Karaba Update

2008-08-17T23:37:00.000-07:00

Had a great first week. Working with Simeon Ngendahayo, Agronomist from SPREAD that has been a great help as liaison with cooperatives in the bike program, and Douglas Mutabazi parts and distribution contact for Project Rwanda - we started at Karaba, spending most of the day visiting with cooperative management, the bike shop/loan manager Safari, and included four coop farmers to provide their assessment of the bikes as owners.
General feedback brought us a great picture of what needs work and what is going very well as the Karaba bike shop reaches its
1 year anniversary in business!

Things are going very well. The mechanic that is dispatched for serious repairs works at a nearby village, making a trip in to the cooperative when needed. Safari is keeping separate accounts for parts and loan repayment, this seems to be the best scenario. Parts revenue is used to maintain parts inventory, and the loan repayment has been going well. In the past few months they have begun bike repossession on those loans that are in default. These bikes will be refurbished and sold at a discounted price.

Wear is showing that the rear wheels on these bikes are taking a beating. The weight being transported on the back rack is wearing down brake pads faster than perhaps anticipated. Farmers need to be aware that if pads are not replaced regularly, damage will occur to the rear rims and this will ultimately require replacement of the wheels.

This message is being distributed to farmers, and we are ramping up the availability of these replacement parts. The education and increased inventory proves to alleviate this issue.

Attended a preliminary planning meeting for a SPREAD sponsored Health Program that will be rolling out in coming months. I am interested to see if BTR can't be involved somehow. More to come.

Planning Day

2008-08-11T03:00:00.000-07:00

Working with SPREAD staff today to line-up details for this weeks activities. I'll be spending a good amount of time collecting data from all the cooperatives that we have pledged to and have already worked with. Starting tomorrow with Karaba. Our introduction into the bike program, it will be great to assess the progress/issues with not only the bikes themselves, but the bike shop at its one year anniversary.

I will be combining the data collected with that of SPREAD and putting together a detailed assessment of the program when I return. Looking forward to having this litmus test more formally available for our contributors, partners and anyone interested in our project.

The weather is mild, overcast with a slight breeze. I hope for some sun this afternoon.

*market in Butare.

Saturday in Butare

2008-08-09T06:13:00.002-07:00

Arrived Friday evening into Butare. After nearly 42 hours of travel, happy to be in one place.
Awoke this morning to a warm breeze, the Rwandan haze in the sky that I have a hard time describing. Spent a nice quiet morning getting settled in and unpacked. The Schillings are my hosts, Butare will be home base.

We went into town to look for some clothes and shoes. The market is an adventure. I really enjoy the saturation that is present for all five senses. The thick smells of dirt, soap, baby powder and many bodies in the sun. As we walk through, it isn't uncommon to have a mysterious hand stroke your hair, hand, clothing. I didn't find this at all intrusive, just curious. When I am here I often try to remember how well my expectations of a small African city held up to what is really here.

Setting down with the calendar to map out the next two weeks, the route, priorities.
Looking forward to some great productivity.
As with last trip, having difficulty uploading pictures. Working on a solution.

Dogs love BTR!!

2008-08-03T15:27:00.000-07:00

Meet Midori, 12 year old super model. Looks like she approves of these cedar stuffed dog beds.

A new partnership from SoCal. Green Beds - creates dog beds out of burlap green coffee bags. I was contacted by these lovely folks who are looking to donate a portion of their proceeds to BTR with the sale of each of these one of a kind bags. Thanks Jenavieve, looking forward to this partnership.
Check out their site... inexpensive and totally rad!

Have bike, will donate??

2008-07-24T13:26:00.000-07:00

It is fairly often we are asked about bike donations. Unfortunately our program does not have the capacity to accept, refurbish and ship used bicycles to Rwanda, however...
there are options for you the motivated used bike owner. CHECK IT OUT:

1. You could sell the bike, donating a portion or all of the proceeds to us. We'll take that money and funnel it into our programs. Give that old bike a new home here in the states and help the farmers in Rwanda get new bikes and bike shops.

or

2. Check these people out... International Bicycle Fund
they are motivated to refurbish your bike and send it out into the world to be used
in developing countries in dire need of transportation resources.

3. Village Bike Project, also totally great people working mainly in Western Africa, Ghana.

EVERYBODY WINS!!!

Canadian teens bake for BTR!

2008-07-17T14:56:00.000-07:00

During the months of April & May, the 11th graders in Sharon Kemble's homeroom class at West Point Grey Academy in Vancouver, BC set to holding bake sales to raise money and awareness for BTR.

"...we've struggled in the past looking for a project that we could dedicate ourselves to, and we truly feel that we have found a great organization to help..."

And help they did!
We received a great letter of their plans to continue this on next year an a check for $1462.79!

"...a program which encourages the economy and more importantly raises the standard of living of the world's poorest should be our number one priority."

We are eager to continue to work with these passionate young adults from Vancouver.
Thanks again for all your efforts!

BTR, Ritual, MTV!!!

2008-07-14T12:02:00.000-07:00

Back in the saddle, lots of work to be done!

Officially raised just over $2,000.00 dollars on the 1st annual BTR Road Trip!
Thanks to my co-hort Sarah Allen board member and editor of Barista Magazine for all her help, fantastic reporting from the field, and for putting up with me for over a week! Hee hee

We had a great time, made new friends, spent time with some old friends and in the end - spread the work of BTR across the NorCal countryside.

Thanks again to our sponsors, Stumptown Coffee Roasters, Crema Cafe & Bakery, Barista Exchange, Chris Baca, Lava Java, Dog River Coffee, Coffee Plant, The Albina Press, Brewed Behavior, The Fresh Pot, Verite Coffee, Espresso Parts, Chris Davidson and Leanne & Steve Allen.
(Sarah's parents)

Carl Brown of Courduroy Media came to the Ritual Ping Pong event, check out the piece he put together on the think.MTV site... pretty rad!

I heat up, can't cool down...

2008-07-07T09:27:00.000-07:00

It is 100, at least here. Whew!!!

I have been a little short on the blog entries since our departure. Old little laptop.

Thanks to Sarah for keeping up on her end. you can read much much more at www.baristamagazine.com/blog/

Looking forward to a comprehensive summary of the whole trip soon.

We are in Santa Clara/San Jose with our buddies at Barefoot for the night.

Tomorrow its off to SF to Ping Pong it up at Ritual on Valencia.

1st Annual BTR Road Trip

2008-07-02T11:18:00.000-07:00

Hey Sarah...
are you ready yet?
we're packing up the Prius,
we'll be blogging all the way.

BTR 2008 Road Trip
Episode 1... Norcal
we have an exciting trip ahead, check it out...

J U L Y 3
Portland to Eureka
pass the night Eureka

J U L Y 4
Eureka to Fort Bragg
Mendocino 4th of July activities, Thanksgiving Coffeetour
pass the night Fort Bragg

J U L Y 5
Breakfast event, Mendocino Bakery, hosted by Thanksgiving Coffee
Lunch Healdsburg, Flying Goat Coffee
to Napa
pass the night Napa

J U L Y 6
Ritual Napa event
pass the night Napa

J U L Y 7
Napa to Taylor Maid Farms
Ecco
pass the night Santa Rosa

J U L Y 8
Strauss Family Creamery
to SF
pass the night SF

J U L Y 9
Blue Bottle
4 Barrel
Ping Pong for Rwanda, Ritual, Mission
pass the night SF

J U L Y 10
Pacific Bay Coffee, Walnut Creek
Davis for burritos
to Sacramento - Temple, Ride On event, bike poker run
pass the night Sacto

J U L Y 11
to Roseville, java J's

...head home! **drawing done in Minneapolis at Cafe Imports party

It's hot! So was the action at the auction yesterday!

2008-06-29T13:52:00.001-07:00

Thanks to all that came out and took part in the action on the
hottest day of the year!
The final dollar amount is not yet in, however we are pleased that nearly half the work sold, and that we were able to be a small part of the Cycle Seen mission.
Frantically getting ready for the NorCal road trip.
All the details to follow.
We're gonna be all over, spreading the word and having a blast!

Eat a popsicle, ride your bike!
Love,
BTR

*photo, 'Kay Bike', Mark Toal

Benefit Silent Auction

2008-06-22T11:20:00.000-07:00

Support Bikes to Rwanda and the
Portland Bicycle Culture in one stop!

Saturday, June 28 4-6pm
Photography exhibition
Silent Auction

Stumptown Division Cafe
4525 SE Division Street

Hope to see you there.

For more information, check out www.cycleseen.org and www.bikestorwanda.com

Efforts and Funds from all over!

2008-06-11T09:39:00.000-07:00

The masses are in full force this Spring raising awareness and funds for BTR in nearly every corner of the US.

Since the beginning of the year, check out what's been going on...

February -
MidAtlantic Barista Jam at Cosmic Cup in Pennsylvannia - raised $2500
Thanksgiving Coffee Roasters effort for Musasa Bike Shop - raised $3000

March -
Western Regional Barista Competition, hosted by Pacific Bay Coffee - raised $3000

April -
Octane Bike Race and Rwandan Coffee event in Atlanta - raised $1500

May -
SCAA & USBC in Minneapoilis, Barista Guild - raised approx. $1000

...now we're looking to the Summer and all the activities we have planned.

Stay tuned for information about 2008 BTR Road Trip - Norcal Style!
July 3 - 13
Sarah Allen & Clara are taking it on the road!

THANKS TO ALL FOR YOUR GREAT SUPPORT!
If you would like to support BTR, contact us, info@bikestorwanda.com
Woohoo!

Short trip - big action #1

2008-05-27T01:09:00.000-07:00

I hope to spread this over-due update over a few posts. Finally back in the land of fast and reliable internet. As said before, the Musasa shop, while not totally complete is on its way and will do great in servicing the region it lies in.
Three other projected locations for shops this year - Bufcafe, Bukonya (Rusenyi), and Gashonga. Each with their unique challenges, we hope to begin the rollout on these withing the next 2-3 months. I am quite excited about this increased action on BTR's part.
Each region proves to be excited and eager for bikes, parts and of course, the shop.

pics: Musasa shop, May 21 - nearly complete, inventory of tools Rich & I with coop managment.

Musasa Bike Shop Update

2008-05-23T23:19:00.000-07:00

Not knowing what I would find when I arrived, I am pleased to say that the Musasa shop is well on its way to completion. We ran into some accountability issues with the budget, but after some stern negotiating, the cooperative and BTR came to an agreement about how to finish the shop and get it up and running, stocked with tools and parts.
You may notice the shop is quite a bit larger than the one at Karaba (our first shop)...
this was part of the issue. We will be helping out a bit more financially, but the coop will take most of the responsibility to complete the structure.

By explaining that this model will be used at cooperatives all over Rwanda - we
were able to have these farmers show some pride in getting the thing open. We left tools tools of the most necessity. Rich Whitekettle from Chris King made this visit with me, helped out a ton. Thanks Rich!

After this meeting, SPREAD contact, Simeon and I have decided that there should be two sizes of shops (one to handle larger coops with more bikes and the Karaba model). By having this standard, with budgets, hopefully we won't have as many surprises.

Pictures to come, connection is scarce and a bit weak.
Best to all!

BTR on the move...

2008-05-13T11:14:00.000-07:00

Attended the Specialty Coffee Association of America's annual trade show in Minneapolis at the beginning of the month. It was a great trip, building relationships with coffee retailers, roasters and other industry leaders. We are excited to report that Bikes to Rwanda is making friends and spreading the word about economic development for coffee farmers in Rwanda.

Barista Magazine and BTR will be taking a road trip early July to continue the crusade of involving communities here in the US with this community development project in Rwanda.

Currently on route to Rwanda. I'll be doing my best to keep everyone updated about our progress building the Musasa bike shop, scouting the next three bike shop locations, and witnessing the harvest for the first time. Very exciting stuff.

Stay tuned!

Re-Use

2008-02-01T09:46:00.000-08:00

If you've been assembling any of that fancy, flat-packed Swedish designer furniture lately you may have ended up with a handful or drawerful of hex wrenches (Allen keys) in a number of various sizes-2,4,5,6,8mm. Coincidentally, they are the same sizes that we use to assemble and repair the BTR bikes. So, put them in an envelope or small box and mail them to us so that we can get them on their way to Rwanda! You get to clean out that junk-drawer and farmers get a set of hex wrenches to do on-the-fly maintenance and repairs.

Bikes To Rwanda
4110 SE Hawthorne #406
Portland, OR 97214

P.S. We should have some drop boxes throughout the city soon to make this a little easier. Refer to yesterdays post about bike shop tool donations, if you have a shop and want a BTR drop box email: info@bikestorwanda.com , "Tools" in the Subject line.

Awesome Tool Donation from Bike n Hike Supports BTR bike shop

2008-01-31T20:32:00.000-08:00

A big THANK YOU to Jens Schrader and Bike n Hike owner, and 2007 BTA Alice Awards winner, Kevin Chudy for their support of Bikes To Rwanda!

Bike n Hike service manager Jens Schrader had a job to do, it was time to update the service center at their downtown Portland store. Jens, a local cross racer and long-time bike mechanic in Portland had a thought... "I should do something with these tools, maybe I'll donate them to Bikes To Rwanda to help stock one of the new bike shops they're building in 2008." Well, Jens had great timing. Those tools, which we picked up earlier in the week are now on their way Rwanda to be a part of BTR's newest bike shop at the Musasa co-op.

Thanksgiving coffee is on their way to Africa for a source visit, and eventually they will be in Rwanda to begin the process of building the bike shop they've been fundraising for over the past month. More on that soon.

It's synergies like these that support Bikes To Rwanda's mission. We feel that the support and cooperation of our local and national partners are what will make BTR successful long into the future.

If you are a bike shop employee or owner in Portland or the continental U.S. and are interested in helping Bikes To Rwanda in this way please contact us at: info@bikestorwanda.com and write "Tools" in the Subject line.

Cheers,
-BTR

BTR Bike Shop, NEW Photos

2008-01-31T10:37:00.000-08:00

Here are a couple of photos from Tim Schilling of the Karaba co-op bike shop, up and running. Thanks Tim.

Bikes To Rwanda at the NAHBS!

2008-01-31T10:14:00.000-08:00

Come by the Ira Ryan Cycles booth at the North American Handmade Bicycle Show in Portland, OR the weekend of February 9-10 and chat up BTR's executive director Clara Seasholtz or technical director Ira Ryan himself! Ira will have a number of amazing new bikes to show and will be taking orders as well. He will also be selling his awesome hand-sewn(Caroline aka "Little Package") , hand-screened hats(Ira), and NEW t-shirts. If you want a little info on BTR we'll have some literature on hand as well as t-shirts, stickers and buttons...and maybe even some cookies!
Hope to see you THERE!
xoxo,
BTR

Time to Give Back!!

2007-12-17T12:31:00.000-08:00

Bikes To Rwanda is excited to announce that we are being featured in the Willamette Week Give!Guide this holiday season! With a goal to encourage giving among the 18-35 age group.

Bikes To Rwanda has had a very successful year, our first, and we are anticipating a great 2008 as well. More cargo bikes, more bike shops and more bike maintenance training in Rwanda. This past year we also had the opportunity to be championed by a great new publication called GOOD Magazine who created a cool video for us to help tell our story.

We are letting all of our past donors, friends and family know how you can donate today and receive some great incentives while helping Bikes To Rwanda and other Portland area non-profits fulfill their missions to make Portland and the world a better place to live, work, learn and play.

Please take a moment to explore Bikes To Rwanda and the Willamette Week’s Give!Guide and make a change for the better this holiday season.

Thank you & HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

October 19 - BTR's Birthday!

2007-10-18T12:25:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BTR!
Can't believe it has been a year.
We are so excited about what we have accomplished, where we are at, where we are headed. We'll be celebrating this coming Wednesday, October 24 at 7pm.
I will be showing slides and sharing my experiences during my trip last month to Rwanda.
Hope to see you there.
If you are a gift giver - gift a bike to someone for BTR's Birthday! Just $120.

GOOD Magazine: Bikes to Rwanda

2007-10-03T11:27:00.001-07:00

This piece really nails it down, how we started, why we are doing what we are doing and how anyone can help to make this mission realized.
Check it out. We're so excited the folks at GOOD were interested in what we are doing.
Thanks to everyone that jumped on board to make this happen, so many people helped out.
Including: the amazing creative folks at GOOD Magazine, US AID/SPREAD, Stumptown Coffee Roasters, and many more.

Great article in NYT

2007-09-20T13:56:00.001-07:00

Take a look at this New York Times article, To Burundi and Beyond for Coffee's Holy Grail about the budding specialty coffee markets, roasting companies, and projects going on all over - including Africa.
Mentions Bikes to Rwanda as Stumptown Coffee project! Exciting stuff.

Ride for Rwanda - Saturday in D.C.

2007-09-17T02:34:00.000-07:00

Counter Culture Coffee together with friends from Murky Coffee, Revolution Cycles, Big Bear Cafe & Baked and Wired are all getting together to celebrate the new training space and raise some awareness and a little cash for Bike to Rwanda.

Event begins with a ride - Check in at 3:30pm, Ride at 4pm
Party to follow 7-10pm
1836 Columbia Road NW, Suite 202 - D.C.

Sounds like a blast. Thanks to everyone behind this. Can't wait to hear how it goes!

Three cheers for Counter Culture and all their support!!

Kiyosike Intashya

2007-09-16T08:27:00.000-07:00

The Bike Shop -
After three visits up to the washing station I was able to work on negotiations for the remaining particulars to get the bike shop business up and running. We were figuring out the best and most effective accountability for the coop with regard to ownership of the parts, tools and the business as a whole. We will be splitting the cost of the interior build out. This will be fairly minimal, shelving and a cabinet for storage, a work bench and the outdoor work area awnings.
I finished up the sign for the shop. They chose the name, it is directly translated from Kinyerwanda to the "Swallow Kiosk". The swallow is synonymous with swiftness, efficiency and productivity. I think an apt name for sure. SPREAD contacts Jay Ritchey and Douglas will help to facilitate the remaining paticulars in my absence. The shop is much needed. Farmers without proper tools (most of them) are damaging the bikes trying to make repairs. This is the shop, just next to the dry storage 100yds from the washing station.

2nd Annual Wooden Bike Classic

2007-09-10T03:27:00.000-07:00

Two very full days of bike racing in all forms. Friday was the Kigali to Butare road race. As expected, the Rwandan National team finished at the lead. Was so great to see the level of hope and inspiration that they bring to Rwandans. Kids chanting the names of the riders, and yelling "Team Rwanda"!!
Saturday featured four races - the Coffee Bike, Single Speed, the Mountain Bike, and the finale - the Wooden Bike Race. It was a hectic day, intense sun, and much excitement. The Wooden Bike Race was by far the most entertaining. Nearly all the racers ran with their bikes, carried them or whatever portion of them that was left after wrecks and breakage. It was an energetic mayhem; everyone seemed to be having a blast. I think for sure next year I'd like to be on one of them rather than just at the sidelines. I am thinking a lot about some race organizing for the states. I think it could be really amazing, RACE FOR RWANDA!!

I am understanding much better the rate at which business happens here. This is the first day in four that I have been able to connect and post here. It is good to slow down, but also frustrating.

Gacaca, genocide courts, Wednesdays in Butare

2007-09-06T02:48:00.000-07:00

From the morning until afternoon, all business is suspended on Wednesdays in Butare for the local genocide courts. Gacaca, pronounced "gachacha", is a tradition inspired system of local community justice. The word, in Kinyerwanda translates to "justice on the grass. Its aim is to:

aid in the reconciliation of all Rwandans and promote the building of unity
speed up the legal preceedings by using all available courts
reconstruct what happened during the genocide, enabling survivors to be part of the justice process.

The slowing of the commerce during this time was impressive. I was eating lunch inside the restaurant so as not to advertise their being open during these hours. I am looking for more information on the progress of these courts, a system of regular reporting. We shall see what I can find.

Saw nearly 3/4 of Rwanda from the car in 2 days

2007-09-05T01:04:00.000-07:00

Took up the offer from SPREAD to join Jeff from Zoka Coffee. He was visiting the washing stations where he purchased from at the auction, Saturday. Was a great way for me to see so much of Rwanda, might not have had the opportunity otherwise.
We started in Butare headed toward the western province, through the National Forest. Aside from the National Guard soldiers at check points, no one to be seen. It was incredible, landscape drama at its best. From what I am told most of the indigenous animal life in Rwanda is confined to the National Parks. This is to ensure their preservation in an overly populated country.

Coming out of the forest we approached nearly 100km of tea plantations as well as rice and sugar cane crop. We then made our way to the eastern shore of Kivu Lake. We stayed the night in Kibuye at the Hotel Golf. It was incredible there. I was very aware of the difference between the hotel and the surrounding village.

Monday morning we traveled to the Eastern Province. The stark difference in landscape was fascinating. I am interested to see the success of the co-op we visited as it starts in on its second year. With the future potential of several thousand members, they could be prime candidates for the bike program. Especially with the landscape. I think the bikes would be put to good use there. I plan to keep tabs on their progress. Back to Butare, homebase.

First night. The Rwanda Golden Cup...

2007-09-01T02:34:00.000-07:00

This Cup of Excellence trial run competition was really impressive, seems that Rwanda has much to look forward to and a lot to be proud of. The awards ceremony was unforgettable. Although I have little to compare with – I have never witnessed the level of both national and individual pride. Fed with the pursuit of economic growth measured only in the highest levels of coffee quality.
The sentiment, the attendance, and being at the Hotel de Milles Collines in the large meeting room, I am experiencing being a minority not only racially but in this world of coffee.
I momentarily looked out the window to see what looked like at least 300 African crows called Kites. Large raven like birds of prey with white blazed chests swirling above the hotel, it was dusk. There is a haze in the sky here that reminds me of the desert.
The dance performances both during and after the ceremony had me saying to myself, wow, I really am in Africa. The dancers' faces, the costumes with manes and ankle bells, beads, spears, full cheetah pelts wrapped around their waists. The drums, flutes, singing - was intense and memorable.

Heading to Butare this afternoon. Looking forward to being at the cooperatives first of the week.

Packed and well on the way!

2007-08-30T02:24:00.000-07:00

Spent the last of my days in town collecting the rest of the donated pumps, bells and tools.
A big thank you to Coventry Cycles, Seven Corners, and the Bike Gallery for their generous donations. I have two of the heaviest pieces of luggage ever. Looking forward to distributing all the goods and lightening my load on the way back.
I will be spending a portion of my time in Rwanda working on getting the bike shop up and running. We hope to have it painted, inventory set up and be able to have it rolling before I leave. From the road...

Big thanks to all the fantastic folks in San Fran!

2007-07-25T12:45:00.000-07:00

Let me first say that the folks down in the bay really do know how to have a good time…

Hillary and I were in SF for the weekend and it was fantastic.
The event at Ritual started a little after high noon on Saturday.
There were five racers in the beginning - each had to, in any way they could, transport the 130 pound bag of green coffee via bike from
Ritual 1 on Valencia to Ritual 2 on Jerrold. We were thinking this wasn’t very far, but I am pretty sure 3 miles with that weight was far enough!
A couple of guys bailed out realizing that 130 pounds was a lot heavier than it seemed.

So it went like this:
Matthew from Ritual, with his POLIZEI helmet and bullhorn P.A. rode the BTR bike, we thought about trying to get Hill on the back also with her camera, didn’t quite work. So Matt rallied the troops from the Valencia location. There were a ton of people out, blocking traffic, placing their bets and buying raffle tickets for everything from bike shop gift certificates, free coffee, hats, books, you name it.

The second rider was Laird with an Xtra-cycle rigged to his bike - dude was clad in USA racing jersey and a powder blue motorcycle helmet.

Then we had old-school messenger Eric Zo (Zo bags) in these crazy turquoise balloon pants, and maybe a little eye-liner and a front load cargo bike much like Joel’s. (He seemed to be the favorite for betting)

So then there was Andy - the only guy that strapped the coffee to himself rather than his bike, with duct tape and some straps this guy ended up beating everyone on his road bike. Except for a little help in stopping, He killed it, and no one bet on him. Woohoo for the underdog!

So the race began…

When we arrived at the second location, everyone had some coffee, we drew some raffle prizes, and rounded everyone up to view the documentary and talk about our project. Great response - people were excited to see the footage, ask questions and throw down the cash for the cause. Ritual’s second location is beautiful, nesteld in the back of a nursery - you can wander around incredible plants with your coffee. I loved it there, very peaceful.

We took a break for an hour or so, found some food at a great Italian deli. Then it was on to the bar to drink for bikes. Matt found these two lovely lady bartenders at a little bar down the way from Ritual, Homestead - they donated half their tips from 3 until 8, small group, but I think everyone pulled their weight in cocktails.

We met some really great folks that were very excited to hang out and learn a bunch about the organization and what we are doing. We were blessed with some of the best weather I have ever witnessed there and it was all in all a fantastic weekend!

Thank you again to all the folks at Ritual and our new SF friends - totally a great event!
And Hillary and I had a great time.
Stay tuned for more event coverage.
Best,
Clara Seasholtz
Executive Director