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    1. Bus

    Ann Arbor Challenges Commuters to Conquer the Cold

    Nov. 3, 2014
    Area business and organizations challenge commuters to own winter with conquer the cold annual event that attracts hundreds of participants.
    Related To: Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority (TheRide) (AAATA)

    The getDowntown Program and TheRide are teaming up with local bike shops, outdoor apparel stores and businesses to challenge area commuters to Conquer the Cold and bike, walk and bus during the winter months.

    Conquer the Cold is part informational campaign, part contest.  During November and December, commuters can visit http://conquerthecold.org to view videos, comics, and read articles on winter bus, bike and walk commuting.  Winter bike commuting classes and clinics will be held by area bike shops and the Washtenaw Biking and Walking Coalition (WBWC).  Bike shops and apparel stores will be offering discounts to anyone who says they want to “Own winter.”  

    In January, commuters can log cold weather commutes, earn badges and win prizes as part of the Conquer the Cold contest. Anyone who logs a commute will receive a free drink coupon to Sweetwater’s Coffee and Tea.  The grand prize is a $500 gift card to Bivouac Ann Arbor.  Other prizes include free registration to One Helluva Ride, STABILicers ice cleats, and gift certificates to local bike shops. 

    According to getDowntown Program Director Nancy Shore, “Neither snow, nor rain, nor the Polar Vortex will keep some commuters from walking, biking and busing to work.  Last year, we had more than 255 commuters log commutes during the Conquer the Cold Contest.  This year, we hope to help even more commuters own winter with Conquer the Cold.”

    This is the Third annual Conquer the Cold and the biggest yet in terms of events, discounts and resources. Conquer the Cold is brought to you by The getDowntown Program and TheRide in partnership with Sweetwater’s Coffee and Tea, Bivouac Ann Arbor, Sic Transit Cycle, Tree Fort Bikes, Transition Rack, Downtown Home and Garden, Wheels in Motion, Running Fit, The Himalayan Bazaar, Ann Arbor Bicycle Touring Society, Great Lakes Cycling and Fitness, Common Cycle, Washtenaw Biking and Walking Coalition, Mighty Good Coffee, The Ann Arbor Downtown Development Authority and the City of Ann Arbor.