Sidewalk Sundays

• When: Sunday afternoons, June 1 through mid-Autumn

  Where: On the sidewalk in front of the shop at 1013 E. 53rd

  Why: Because the shop is too small to accommodate regular maintenance work and there aren't enough bike shops in Hyde Park to match the in-season needs of everyday cyclists.

  We'll set up a workstand or two on the sidewalk and get out of the stuffy little shop to enjoy Chicago's weather. Kids and neighbors alike are welcome to bring down their bicycles for simple repairs and regular maintenance work. Compensation for labor will take the form of donations only, with 100% of the proceeds being donated to the Blackstone Bicycle Works at (773) 241-5458.

  Children and families in particular are welcome; educational materials on safe riding will be available, and all kids will receive free safety and helmet checks.

  Each week a new freebie will be available to kids, such as laminated Obama spoke cards, bicycle maps of the city, and helmet stickers. Please note that the shop itself will be closed during Sidewalk Sunday hours. Volunteers are welcome to come down and help out; it's sure to be a lot of fun!