It was time to junk my Burning Man bike for a real bike to use around the park, maybe even for some trails or something. BM bikes are typically trash that can be disposed of after a week on the playa, and mine had so many frozen bearings that it was downright dangerous. When I need another junker for BM, I’ll get another cheapie.
I bought it at The Recyclery, a Parks-operated program and shop here in PT that takes discarded bikes and rebuilds them, while employing teenagers and conducting classes for everyone. They share their shop with previously trained people, organize community bike rides, consult on bike matters with the local governments, and hustle for money. Pretty much a classic PT type of community operation: Outstanding individuals willing to trade their expertise for next to nothing for the privilege of being here.
The bike is great. Well-used, but completely refurbished by folk that want it done right rather than cheap. Better than factory because they give a damn. It’s registered with them and I get access to the shop to work on it. Great people, and a great program.
Then, The Fruit Stand (previously World Peace Fruit Stand) has reopened this year just up the road from me, after an absence of a few years, which is great news. We pay a premium for fresh produce because of the transportation issues [miles, ferries, bridges] and having someone that’s willing to take on the gamble is really nice. One of the great experiences in shopping there is lagniappe, a surprise addition to your bag you didn’t know you wanted and didn’t pay for. I bought a Santa Claus melon (from the Imperial Valley, but I know them from Green Valley, Utah) and was told to try them with a lime. There was one in my bag of cherries, so I guess I’ll give it a try. On the way out I was tossed a pink lemon to try.
It’s a heat wave, and the warnings have gone up. 83 today.