February, 1995

Dear Friends:

Thank you for showing interest in Portland's Free Community Bike Program. It is interesting that the program has been picked up nationally and is now known as "The Yellow Bike Program". Lots of people have asked us to provide information as to how to start a yellow bike program in their communities. As of this writing 65 communities have contacted us from every section of the country.

This is a bit overwhelming to us but everything about our yellow bikes has been more exciting and magical than we had anticipated. The fact that our program is off the ground and is working gives us the confidence to share our experience with you in the hope that it will help you in your community.

We have confidence that Portland's project will be successful. We also know that it was relatively easy to establish. These facts lead us to think that you can also be successful. Let us share a vision with you. Imagine free yellow bikes available to folks everywhere. What we like about this vision is that it could happen. Wouldn't it be great for THE YELLOW BIKE PROGRAM to be a national reality. So let us see what will happen. We have prepared a packet of information which shares our experience to date.

Our sense is that it would be a good idea for us to stay in touch with each other and share our ups and downs. The Internet may be something to consider. At any rate we would we would love to hear from you. We are putting together a homespun video which borrows from stories that "Good Morning America" and local TV stations did on us. If you are interested in getting a copy send us a check for $25.00 to cover our expenses. If you could send us a contribution to help cover the cost of this mailing, it would be greatly appreciated.

Good Luck, Have Fun, and remember that whatever you do to get free bikes into your community helps all of us.

Sincerely,

Thomas H. O'Keefe
Director

Joe Keating
Director