Iyengar Yoga Teacher, tony eason cycles 585 miles for AIDS Charity

Mission Bicycle

2009-07-01T19:17:00.000-07:00

A week before my 7 day, 545 mile bike trek with the AIDSLifecycle Event, I began "carbo loading" & walking (instead of cycling) thorough San Francisco's Mission District. And with each journey through the Latin quarter, I noticed something new & refreshing.

First came L's Cafe, then came Mission Skateboards, then came Pushbike SF .. ... ...

AND NOW:

Mission Bicycle

766 Valencia Street,
San Francisco, CA,
415-683-6166

Upon entering Mission Bicycles' custom bike boutique, I became very intrigued with the idea of designing a custom "fixed gear," "free wheel & fixed gear," or "internal hub" bike (starting at approx. $750.00).

Myself, riding a custom, Soulcraft Road Bike (starting at $500.00 for just your frame "deposit"), I can appreciate the ability to get a stunningly distinct"custom" bike built for the urban /city rider at an affordable price.

"We started Mission Bicycle because we weren't satisfied with the bicycles sold in bike stores. The best bicycles on the streets of San Francisco are the custom built fixed gear bikes those with the know-how are building up for themselves and friends. It didn't make sense to us that these bikes were not available to everyone else so we set out to change that." - Mission Bicycles

1. Pick your Framset

Mission Bicycle Company's "Valencia Frames" are custom made for urban riding. Double butted Chromoly tubing, track geometry, horizontal drop outs, and an integrated seat collar. Drop outs support a rear rack mount but comes clear of bottle and brake cable mounts. Comes in 50cm, 53cm, 56cm, 59cm, and 62cm.

2. Pick your "Valencia Frame" Color -

Choose your own color. Want more choices? Mission Bicycle Company can do any of these colors, just put the RAL number in your 'order comments' on the last page of the check out.

3.

Gears

By default, your Mission Bicycle only comes with a front brake and fixed gear. If you upgrade to Freewheel + Fixed Gear, you'll get a front brake and both gear combination's.

Fixed Gear

A fixed gear is an unique ride. The pedals move with the wheels and you can stop pedaling to stop.

Freewheel & Fixed Gear [+25]

A freewheel will let your bicycle coast. Our freewheels model come with a "flip flop" hub so you can switch into fixed gear mode.

Internal Geared Hub [+100]

These are internal geared, three speed Nexus hubs.

Handlebars

Where your hands rest. These affect your body’s riding style & position.

Bullhorn Handlebars

Bullhorn handle bars are great for semi-upright riding. They give you that lean without the full forward tuck of traditional drop bars. Our bullhorns bars are made from T-6 aluminum alloy, weigh 235 grams, are 40cm in length, and 25mm in diameter. They come in polished silver.

Riser Handlebars

Riser bars put you in a more upright riding position. Perfect for Oury grips. Steel alloy construction with a 25.4mm clamp size.

Soma Track Bar [+25]

Standard track bars for an aero look. Made by SOMA, a San Francisco company. Stiff Tange Steel bar with classic Cinelli shape except our drops extend back a little farther. Chrome finish. 25.4mm clamp diameter. 170mm drop. 107mm reach measured center-to-center.

Nitto Tokyo B123 Track Bar [+65]

Japanese Keirin racing approved. Drop bars for an aero look. CroMo construction for durability. Polished to chrome, 25.4 mm clamp, 170 mm drop and 108 mm reach, 37cm width.

Stem

Connects your handlebars to your frame and affects the position your handlebars will sit.

Standard Stem

Forged AL6061-T6 steel alloy construction, 31.8mm handlebar clamp, 138 grams. Comes in 80mm and 110mm length and with +/- 5 degree rise.

Thomson Elite [+60]

Machined from 7000 series aluminum. The stem is one-piece design with no welds or joints. Thomson's "two clamps in one" design provides a stiff ride with minimal flexing or squeaking. The Thomson stem has passed extensive life and ultimate strength tests. Every component of the Thomson stem, including the fasteners, is 100 percent American made. You can learn more here.

Saddle

What you sit on. A nice one that fits you well will make riding more comfortable.

Mike Aitken [+20]

BMX tough but perfect for the city. Kevlar reinforced cover.

Brooks B17 Leather Saddle [+90]

Extremely durable, all-leather saddle. Made in England.

Selle San Marco Pro VIP

Comfortable for long distances. Water proof and soft to the touch. Lightweight, only 295 grams.

Seatpost

Connects your saddle to the frame and can affect your body’s position.

Standard Seatpost

Standard mission bicycle alloy seatpost.

Thomson Elite Seatpost [+65]

Lighter weight aluminum machining, legendary Thomson quality. Complete tilt control of your saddle angle. Made in the USA.

What more would you want from a bike boutique?
And, what a great way to support your local community.
Check them out!

Related Links:

Michael Jackson - R.I.P.

2009-06-25T16:52:00.000-07:00

"Pop star Michael Jackson was pronounced dead today after paramedics found him in a coma at his Bel-Air mansion, city and law enforcement sources told The Times.

Los Angeles Fire Department Capt. Steve Ruda told The Times that paramedics responded to a 911 call from the home. When they arrived, Michael Jackson was not breathing. The paramedics performed CPR and took him to UCLA Medical Center, Ruda said."

"Hundreds of reporters gathered at the hospital awaiting word on his condition. The sources, who spoke on the condition that they not be named, said family members rushed to Jackson's bedside, where he was in a deep coma.

The circumstances of Jackson's death remain unclear. Law enforcement sources said that Los Angeles Police Department robbery-homicide detectives have opened an investigation into the death, though they stressed there is no evidence of criminal wrongdoing. The detectives plan to interview relatives, friends and Jackson's doctors to try to figure out what happened. The L.A. County coroner's office will determine a cause of death." - Michael Jackson - L.A. Times

Related Links:

What does a yoga teacher do "when not doing yoga?"

Yogapalooza

2009-06-14T22:25:00.000-07:00

Yogapalooza - San Francisco

June is National Cancer Survivor’s Awareness Month!

Come show your support by attending the second annual Yogapalooza.

Yoga teachers from various backgrounds will share their knowledge of yoga while donating all yoga class proceeds to the success of Yoga Bear

Treat yourself and help provide cancer survivors with free, alternative rehabilitation services at this annual event, where 100% of the proceeds will benefit the Yoga Bear and its programming.

YOGABEAR is a community of friends -- cancer survivors, yogis, health professionals, and volunteers -- across the nation. By partnering with local yoga studios, YOGABEAR matches cancer survivors with yoga classes in their community free of charge. Our collective of studios are providing participants with comfortable surroundings and healthy activity to promote quality of life and survivorship.

YOGABEAR strives to provide the community with more information about yoga as a complementary treatment in cancer recovery. We do this through hosting workshops and charity yoga classes, blogging, and partnering with other wonderful non-profits.

WHEN: June 27th, 2009 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM

WHERE: James Howell Studio, 66 Sanchez St. San Francisco, CA 94114

(Three blocks from Church and Market. Easy Access by MUNI)

First 25 in San Francisco to RSVP get a free GAIAM aluminum water bottle. All Day Passes are $25. No one will be turned down for lack of funds. Please contact frances@yogabear.org to RSVP if you are unable to pay.

SCHEDULE

1:00 Registration
1:15 - 2:05 Class #1 : Kelly McGonigal
2:15 - 3:05 Class #2 : Tony Eason
3:05 - 3:30 Break and Raffle
3:30 - 4:20 Class #3 : Talei Loloma
4:30 - 5:20 Class #4 : Soleil Hepner
5:20 Announce Silent Auction winners and wrap up
Raffle Tickets can be bought at registration or between classes. Silent auction will go on till 5:20 pm; winners will be announced at 5:30pm.
Thank you to these companies for generous donations to the silent auction: GAIAM (yoga mats, props, and DVDs); Twisted Oak (wine); Swami Baby (yoga clothing), Chicken Soup for the Soul (books)

AIDSLifeCycle - Santa Cruz to King City - Day #2

2009-06-11T08:54:00.000-07:00

View AIDSLifeCycle in a larger map

AIDSLifeCycle Day #2

At 4:30am, CAT 2 Cyclist, Kyle Rich & I rose from our night's sleep and prepared to cycle from Santa Cruz to King City (a 107 mile journey). While deflating the air mattress & packing up the tent, I was confronted by "FEAR.'

[2 years ago, on Day #2, I missed a direction arrow and rode 15 miles off course ... ending up in Monterey (going west instead of east to King City). And later in the day, 5 miles before the finish line at King City, I was confronted with a 15 mph side wind combined with a side draft from "a Big Rig" . . "I lost control of my Soulcraft Bike Frame ... . I ate it." (Tony became reunited with road rash).]

But knowing that "FEAR" is an intricate part of what I refer to as "the little man in your head," I focused on the breath (removing the thoughts from my head) and prepared for my second day's journey.

At 6:30am, Kyle, David, Bruce, Ramon, Aesha, Jess and I arrived at the AIDSLifeCycle starting line. As we departed, I noticed a route change - AIDSLifeCycle had removed the 1 mile stretch of broken, unpaved road from the the route - YIPPEE ( no lower back pain).

As with tradition, in order to break away from the "peloton" of pink boas, wonder woman outfits, and assorted decorated bikes, I pressed the "turbo button" and cycled right past by Pitstop #1. Arriving at the lunch stop, I ate a couple "Pro Bars," downed two bottles of water, sucked down a Hammer Gel, ingested lunch and proceeded with my journey.

Soon after leaving the lunch stop, I received a text message from my trainee, Jess.

[On 01 January 2009, Jess attended my Annual AIDSLifeCycle Kickoff Party and informed me that she wanted me to be her trainer and over the next 6 months - "kick her ass into shape." - I accepted the invitation (smile).]

Jess informs me that she's at the lunch stop (mile 45 of 107) and has never felt more "haggard. " I realize that her text message was "a cry for help." So, I sent out a few text messages instructing friends to send her words of encouragement & for Ashley (her girlfriend) to call her and give her some long distance support.

Soon later, another AIDSLifeCycle Tradition, I arrive at the "Cookie Lady." Making thousands of cookies for the 2,000 cyclist & 400 crew members, there you could find a variety of cookies for your palate - chocolate chip, oatmeal, raisin, vegan, etc. I ate 3 cookies and moved on to the finish line.

[Rumor has it that she used to be an AIDSLifeCycle Roadie and decided to make cookies instead.]

A few hours after being in camp, I was hand delivered my "first ever" AIDSLifeCycle Safety Citation (with a note stating, "You should know better, Tony"):

Rider #5790
Mile 92.7
Infraction: "Riding two or more abreast"

At first, I was a bit confused / angry about whether or not it was a true infraction. Yet, then the phone rang - JESS HAD MADE HER WAY TO CAMP!

And a wonderful second day it was ......

Check back for the recap of the next 5 days of AIDSLifeCycle 2009

The AIDSLifeCycle Experience:

AIDSLifeCycle - "San Francisco to Santa Cruz" - Day #1

2009-06-10T10:08:00.000-07:00

View AIDSLifeCycle in a larger map

AIDSLifeCycle Day #1

Reaching my fund raising minimum of $3,000.00, On 31 May 2009, I arrived at the Cow Palace & patiently awaited the opening ceremonies for AIDSLifeCycle 2009. Although there was no coffee in the house, testosterone was overflowing and the 2,000 cyclist reminded me of "The Running of the Bulls of Pamplona."

Having cycled the first stage of this journey (as part of my training), I had no doubt that my performance would be acceptable. And having the company of David, Ramon - "the slacker," Bruce, Aesha, and Jess - "Butch," I was assured that I wasn't alone.

6:30am, - AND THE RIDE BEGINS:

As I darted out of the Cow Palace, amongst the flow of 2,000 fellow cyclist, I heard my name being called - "Tony Eason." And as I focused my eyes, I saw my yoga students of James Howell Studio. My yoga students had acted upon what I had told them - "I have never had anyone make a sign with my 'whole name' on it for the opening ceremonies of AIDSLifeCycle." Therefore, they organized a carpool & made a sign. I was so "moved & shocked" that I nearly fell off my bike.

Later that day, as I rode down Highway 92 towards Half Moon Bay, I noticed a drive thru coffee business - Caffino. So, being that there was no Peet's in sight, I pulled over and enjoyed a double latte. And as I sipped my coffee, I contemplated an 80 mile, nonstop ride to Santa Cruz. And then, my eyebrow rose. In the distance, I saw fellow AIDSLifeCycle cyclist -Sports Basement G.M, Joey Chandler moving like a seasoned gazelle.

After being fueled by caffeine, I passed up the lunch stop at San Gregorio State Beach (mile 41.1) and proceed to take a 10 minute breather at the general store in Davenport, California. (mile 70).

At approximately 2:00pm., I arrived at Day #1 Campsite, Harvey Camp Park. At 4:00pm, going with tradition, I found myself having dinner with tent mate, 3rd Yr. AIDSLifeCycle Cyclist, Kyle Rich & "Team Google."

[AIDSLifecycle 2007 "Team Google" provided me with the Google seal of approval for "An Outstanding AIDSLifeCycle Packing List). Team Google says, "It was exactly what they were searching for ...." ]

At 8:00pm, I retired to my tent.

Check back for the recap of the next 6 days of AIDSLifeCycle 2009

The AIDSLifeCycle Experience:

ALC Party 2009

2009-06-01T12:40:00.000-07:00

On 31 May 2009, I began a 7 day, 545 mile journey from San Francisco to Los Angeles. At that time, I was in correspondence with my guest blogger "Denali" (above). He' wrote/ posted a blog report based on our phone conversations & text messages - check out "his take" on AIDSLifeCycle 2009 (below).

I arrived at Tony’s AIDSLifeCycle / Fat Tire Beer Fund raising Party with a beer mug in hand. (objective: to support the San Francisco AIDS Foundation by raising donations for his 12th ride to Los Angeles with the AIDSLifeCycle Event) Expecting a long night of celebrating and revelry; this is exactly what I received.

As I made my way through the crowds of people, passing many familiar faces, some from previous parties & many of the others work at the sports store in which Tony spends his time. I found myself right where I wanted to be; in front of the keg for the first installment of glass filling, with many more refills to come throughout the night.

Ten minutes into the party, Tony emerged from his rooftop deck to both welcome & let me in on the VIP festivities that were going to take place in the minutes to come.

At 9:30pm. sharp, I headed into the VIP Room (Tony's Room) to find it filled with some of his closest friends & co-workers (the only people allowed in his room at that time). Others tried to enter, but were turned away at the door. Some of these folks just shut the door and left, while others persistently tried to get into this exclusive event. Despite protests, Tony wasn't hearing it, and strictly enforced his VIP policy. You could definitely see the seriousness in Tony’s eyes, knowing the doorman antics where the only way to accomplish the mission at hand.

As we all enjoyed our time in the VIP Room at the ALC party 2009, I looked around and noticed there were two individuals who had nothing to do with the requirements of entering the room. One of these persons was “Cousin Dave,” who has never missed a party at the sports store this group worked at. (that sports store loves to throw parties too. With at least five per year and many other impromptu events happening without the knowledge of the management.

The other VIP crasher was a friend of Felix & Blanca (two wonderful individuals who help clean up after all the children who destroy the break rooms of the sports store). This guy brought along his small guitar, similar sound to a ukulele with the appearance of a child’s guitar. He brought us much musical enjoyment throughout the night; he even gave private serenading for those lucky guests.

After about an hour of being hidden away in the far back room on the left, cups are starting to empty and party goers are in need of more refreshments. We all decide it is time to emerge back onto the scene happening in the rest of the house. By this time the enforcement of the VIP Room has died and other party goers had infiltrated the scene.

I head back to the keg for a refill, and upon arrival find a swarm of “keg leeches.” (You know those individuals who never move more than two feet from the keg, as if the next fill up could be their last for the evening). Fortunately for these guys, at this time, the keg had plenty of beer left in it, and so I made my way past their hungry drunk eyes.

With a fresh mug of beer in hand, I head out to the deck. Here, I run into a former sports store co-worker of both mine and Tony’s. Our conversation starts with the usual small talk—“How are things going?” and so on—and then gets deeper into conversations by discussing old tales and wrongdoings of the infamous sports store job. I continued to such an extent until I was told that the tale made her sick and she did not want to hear anymore about the terrible actions which had taken place.

After disgusting my friend, I realize that my mug had yet again emptied and it was time for my fourth and final trip to the “Fat Tire beer wheel.” This would be my final cup. After that I knew it would be time to make my trek across the beautiful city back home. As I took my final sips, Tony and I made a quick plan to meet later the following week to talk about the epic ride he was about to embark on.

Knowing that this year could be the best year yet & certainly was going to be a memorable one. I can only hope that next year’s AIDSLifeCycle / Fat Tire Beer Fundraising Party, can happen sooner than later as it is an event we all wait for the entire year.

AIDSLifeCycle Fat Tire Beer Fund raising Party:

The AIDSLifeCycle Experience:

AIDSLifeCycle - The Beginning

2009-05-30T07:47:00.000-07:00

AIDSLifeCycle - Day Zero / Registration Day

With less that 24 hours before my departure to Los Angeles with the AIDSLifeCycle Event, I'm preparing to go to the Day Zero - Registration / Orientation Day to:

Turn in my pledges (to meet my $3,000 pledge minimum requirement)
Get my tent assignment.
Watch the safety video
Hang out with my fellow veteran cycling buddies & shoot the shit .. ....

After completing all the paperwork, I will return to Sports Basement (to pick up a few more items). And then, I will have dinner (carbo loading) with my best friend & anonymous sponsor, "Jason Loop."

View AIDSLifeCycle in a larger map

AIDSLifeCycle - Day #1 / San Francisco to Santa Cruz

On 31 May 2009, 5:00am, 2,500 cyclist will rise from bed and be reunited at the Cow Palace, 2600 Geneva Ave., Daly City CA 94014
Spectator parking is available for $8.00 per vehicle.
Participant drop off within the main Cow Palace gates is also available.
No vehicles will be able to access the main gate after 6:30am.
Opening Ceremonies will begin at 6am., immediately followed by Ride Out.

During the 7 day, 545 mile journey, I will be in correspondence with my guest blogger "Denali" (above). He'll be writing / posting a daily blog report based on our phone conversations & text messages - check back and read "his take" on AIDSLifeCycle 2009.

Subscribe / add my rss feed (by clicking the icon below ) to your feed reader; My Yahoo; Google Reader; or Firefox; and receive moment to moment reports on my present "whereabouts" & the trials and tribulations which occur as I text my way to Los Angeles....... .. ..

An Invitation to Oprah Winfrey

San Francisco speaks to Oprah Winfrey

Ivengar Yoga Teacher cycles 575 miles - Aidslifecycle 2008

Ivengar Yoga Teacher cycles 575 miles - Aidslifecycle 2007

Ivengar Yoga Teacher cycles 575 miles - Aidslifecycle 2006

Ivengar Yoga Teacher cycles 575 mile Aidslifecycle 2005

Aidslifecycle - An Interview - Part IV.

Aidslifecycle - An Interview Part III.

Aidslifecycle - An Interview Part II.

Aidslifecycle - An Interview Part I.

AIDS Rides:

The Smart Ride

The Empire State AIDS Ride

Ride for AIDS Chicago

AIDS Walk + Ride

AIDS Foundation of Chicago

Act 6 - The Wisconsin AIDS Ride Ride 4 AIDS

New Jersey - Ride Against AIDS

STAP - Ride for Life

Hill Country Ride for AIDS

The Lone Star Ride

Red Ribbon Ride

Braking the Cycle

Waffle Bike

2009-05-23T21:16:00.000-07:00

Wow!

Love it!

WAFFLE BIKE!

AIDSLifeCycle 2009

2009-05-17T22:31:00.000-07:00

>

In 8 days, I will embark on my 12th cycling journey from San Francisco to Los Angeles. Therefore, I must remind myself to possess an absence or cessation of motion; to evoke stillness, and to remain calm.

In May of 1994, I left San Francisco with $3.00 in my pocket, no idea of how I was going to return, a questionable bike, the fear of failure, and began to cycle (along with 1500 other cyclist) toward West Hollywood. Seven days, 575 miles later, I arrived in West Hollywood. At which point, I realized it is possible to step outside of your normal routine. I realized it is possible to empower yourself while assisting others. I realized that I wasn’t alone in my ideas of creating a better world. And I realized that miracles could occur (after all, I made it back home with $3.00 in my pocket) .

- Nothing was planned.

On 04 June 2005, I rose at at 9:30am. (and soon later), I arrived at the AIDSLifeCycle registration - "Day Zero" - to meet up with my cycling buddies, meet old friends, and participate in the "tent assignment," "medical waiver release," and "safety video for the AIDSLifecycle Event."

- Everything went as planned.

On 06 June 2007, All of our cycling gang got up at 4:30am. Nate, Tony, Don Colnago, "Norwegian Cruiseliner"-Tom, "Mr Rio," the Team Atlas Cafe, and the Brazilian Team all line up for the 6:30am start time . .. . .Yet, the "Norwegian Cruiseliner informs us that there's some juju in the air ....

And there off . .. ." Kyle Rich is "the rabbit."

"Norwegian Cruiseliner" breaks a spoke 10 miles before lunch (no chance of be reunited today with "the rabbit.")

After lunch,Tony misses "an arrow" and rides 15 miles off course ..."Can we say . ..Welcome to Monterey?"

After 9 years of traveling this route, I phoned for assistance. And then, I experienced my first ride in the SAG Wagon (Support & Gear Vehicle) - Scooby Doo's “The Mystery Machine”.

Yet the Ken's SAG Wagon (with the "rainbow striped Teddy Bear" sitting in the right rear corner of the car) . ...was great. They offered banana chips, water, and selected dried fruit to each passenger.

After being returned to the lunch stop (backtracking and increasing my day's mileage by approx. 27 miles), I continued my journey to "King City."

As I cycled on, I noticed "Mr Rio" on the side of the road. "Mr. Rio" had broke a spoke. Therefore, we disengaged the cable from the back brake (leaving "Mr. Rio" with only a front brake - yet allowing more room for his lopsided wheel to spin). And then, I guided him (to insure a safe passage) to the next pitstop - Pitstop 4.

Continuing with my intentions, I proceeded with my journey. Yet, 5 miles before the finish line at King City, I was confronted with a 15 mile per hour sidewind combined with a side draft from "a Big Rig" . . "I lost control of my Soulcraft Bike Frame ... . "I ate it." (Tony becomes reunited with "road rash)." And then, a fellow cyclist insured "my" safe passage to the finish.

- Nothing went as planned.

On 31 May 2009, I will be reminded that , we've talked all the talk ... And now ......we've got to walk the walk .. . " -

And although, each ride has brought me a new experience - some things remain the same. On the first day of this year's ride, as I look around the Cow Palace, I may see a bunch of bulls waiting to be set free. And although the key to "surviving" such a journey is to pace oneself, as they open the gates, I and 2,500 other cyclist, will jet out like the running of the bulls in Pamplona - we'll be hoping for the best & fearing for the worst (smile).

- Stay tuned (and check back starting 31 May 2009) to see what "really happens" during AIDSLifeCycle 2009.

Wishing the best of all possible worlds,

Related Links:

New - San Francisco speaks about Aidslifecycle

An Invitation to Oprah Winfrey

Ivengar Yoga Teacher cycles 575 miles - Aidslifecycle 2008

Ivengar Yoga Teacher cycles 575 miles - Aidslifecycle 2007

Ivengar Yoga Teacher cycles 575 miles - Aidslifecycle 2006

Ivengar Yoga Teacher cycles 575 mile s - Aidslifecycle 2005

Mike's Bikes

2009-05-15T08:44:00.000-07:00

In 2008, Mike's Bikes created and implemented an Africa Bike Drive changing the lives of individuals in Botswana. The program was so successful that Mike's Bikes has decided to build on this success and double their goal for the 2009 Africa Bike Drive (over 800 bikes all going to a remote village in Namibia where every bicycle makes a huge difference).

For every bicycle donated, Varsity Painting will contribute $30 to the Children's Hospital & Research Center of Oakland, California on behalf of the bike donor. And to top it off, the Mike's Bikes Foundation has just been approved for 501(c)(3) tax exempt non-profit status, so your bike donation is tax-deductible!

A remote village in Namibia will be the location of the new Sister Shop, a place where there is little access to telephones, much less bicycles. Erasmus and Ludwig (above) are the point-men on the ground along with Peace Corps Volunteer Kami. They are thrilled to have an opportunity to bring a better life to their community through the power of the bicycle. With your help and generosity, it’s going to be a beautiful partnership.

How it works
Simply bring in your donation bicycle to any Mike's Bikes store. Mike's Bikes will take down your contact information and do two things with it:

1. Provide it to Varsity Painting so that they can make a $30.00 donation (in your name) to the Children’s Hospital of Oakland.

2. Mike's Bikes will email you a 501(c)(3) receipt that you may use to deduct your bike donation on your taxes.

By bringing your unwanted bike to Mike’s for donation, you’ll not only be helping change the lives of people in developing Africa, but the lives of children receiving treatment at Children’s Hospital of Oakland.

A wonderful example of "karma yoga" in action.

If you want to create change (perhaps a better world) - you must begin with yourself . .

Wishing the best of all possible worlds,

Related Links:

Mike's Bikes - Africa Bike Drive - 2008

Mike's Bikes on Flickr (photos)

Mike's Bikes

Bike Shop - Pushbike

2009-05-13T18:16:00.000-07:00

Today, as I was wandered down 24th Street, I noticed a window with brightly colored cycling jerseys. And being a road cyclist, I became curious as to "when did this get here?" So, I ventured in the doorway to check it out.

Pushbike is a clothing & accessories shop committed to bringing you the best products to enhance your cycling lifestyle. With many decades of bike messenger & traveling experience, Owner, Sarah Murder stocks the shelves with brands she believes in. Bringing together small run, handmade & vintage goods, along with technical clothing you won't find in larger retail outlets.

And even better, items are reasonably priced. I picked up a Santini Jersey for $28.00.

And as you look behind you, you'll find that Pushbike shares a storefront with Mission Skateboards.

So:

If you believe in supporting your local community.
Are looking for something other than the usual Pearl Izumi, Sugio, Specialized or Cannondale apparrel .
Are heading towards the Skate Park and need some new wheels.
Or are looking for a breath of fresh air.

Check out:

Pushbike & Mission Skateboards
3045 24th Street @ Treat
San Francisco, CA.
415.647.7222
11:00 - 7:00pm.

And if you're lucky, they'll serve you a cup of tea. And don't forget to tell them "ynottony" sent you.

Wishing the best of all possible worlds,
tony

Related Links:

Free Yoga Classes - San Francisco

2009-04-28T12:23:00.000-07:00

"Free Yoga at Sports Basement"

- "In November 2008, as I was looking at the "Grotto" (community space) of Sports Basement, a light bulb went on. And, I began to ponder over the idea of using Sports Basement's community space to serve the yoga community. So to get the ball rolling, I began to teach free yoga classes each Sunday at Sports Basement.

A month later, I organized the first yoga teacher schedule, began the internet promotions, and then watched the students arrive. Since that time, the seed has blossomed. And, Sports Basement has applied my initial concept to their other store locations.

And now, I would just like to express my thanks & gratitude to all the yoga students who have attended & all the yoga teachers who have supported the idea of "free yoga Sundays" - making yoga accessible to every individual regardless of financial status

Much love & thanks,"

- Founder of Sports Basement's Free Yoga Program, Yoga teacher, Tony Eason

Click here & Check out what other's are saying about free yoga at Sports Basement

Since November 2008, Sports Basement has hosted free yoga classes each & every Sunday from 1:00 - 2:30pm. And thanks to the high turn out of yoga students, speed walkers, mothers, coach potatoes, high school students, Fat Tire Beer Specialist, snowboarders and then some, I have been able to continue making yoga acdessible to each & every individual..

So get your shoes. Jump on your bike. Catch the Muni #33, #22, #9 or even the #19 - I'm sure you'll like it.

Sports Basement --San Francisco [map]
1590 Bryant St.
San Francisco, CA
(415) 575-3000

Yoga Teachers of various styles ( Iyengar Yoga , Ashtanga Yoga , Vinyasa , Raja Yoga , Kundalini , Anasara Yoga , Yin Yoga , Power Yoga , Anna Forrest Yoga , etc.) will present their unique connection with the yogic path.

03 May 2009 - Kundalini Yoga Teacher - Bhagvati Iris Lange

Having practiced Hatha Yoga since she was 15 yrs. old, 7 years ago, Bhagvati Iris Lange began studying Kundalini as taught by Yogi Bhajan in Hamburg, Germany. Bhagvati believes Kundalini Yoga is a complete lifestlye that enables one to live consciously & happy. Bhagvati teaches Yoga because she wants to share this great science & be supportive to others wishing to connect with the wisdom of their inner healer. Presently she teachers at the Kundalini Yoga Center, James Howell Yoga Studio, and private classes.

10 May 2009 - Yoga Teacher - Annie Leguennec

I am a student and yoga instructor rooted in the Ashtanga tradition. Swadhyaya:Self Education, study. Not accepting without question. Expanding knowledge through reading, studying, and observation.

I discovered yoga 5 years ago at my local gym, felt in love with it, and never looked back. I have been practicing yoga since.

I am a Yoga Teacher rooted in the Ashtanga tradition. I focused on alignment, the breath, better posture, and the therapeutic effects of yoga. I teach prenatal yoga, and yoga for seniors in the community. I teach my regular yoga classes at the YMCA in San Francisco, Also, I have taught yoga classes in several martial arts schools in the city of San Francisco. Let your practice shine.

17 May 2009 - Yoga Teacher - Jessica Weiss

Jessica Weiss currently teaches an Anusara inspired Vinyasa flow yoga class at the YMCA in East Palo Alto. Her yoga classes are physically vigorous and emphasize the practice of Yoga both on & off the mat.

Each yoga class is an exploration of where we are at the particular moment - both physically & mentally. And she encourages sthudents to feel deeply in each yoga pose in order to understand their own unique alignment and potential. And although yoga is a serious medicine for general well-being, she suggest that it we don't limit our ability to laugh and let go.

"Make yoga a dance of life - know when to stop, when to go, and when to let go.

She encourages students to:

Be their own creators.
To determine their own stories.
To dance their own dance.
And to find happiness in their life & happiness in the live's of others.

24 May 2009 - Yoga Teacher - Tony Eason
A Graduate of the Iyengar Yoga Institute of San Francisco, Tony Eason has been a student of Yoga for fifteen years. As an endurance cyclist, Tony came to yoga for the benefits of stretching. For five years he studied under Yoga Teacher Mary Friedland. Tony continued to develop his personal practice and teaching skills with the guidance of Yoga Teachers: Kathy Alef, Ben Thomas, Tommijean Thomas PhD, Jaki Nett, and Nora Burnett. He apprenticed under Certified Iyengar Yoga Teacher, Janet MacLeod. He is a graduate of the Two-year Advanced Teacher Training Program of the Iyengar Yoga Institute of San Francisco.
Through Hatha yoga classes, he teaches students to pay attention to the alignment of their bodies, to become aware of the breath, and to control the mind. Presently, Tony teaches classes, seminars, and substitute teaches at: James Howell Studio, Club One, Sports Basement and the San Francisco Tennis Club . Cyclist, beginners, seasoned yoga students, and everyone else, are encouraged to attend his yoga classes.

31 May 2009 - Yoga Teacher - Gizella Donald

Gizella began her studies and practice in 1990 at the Sivananda Yoga Center in San Francisco. Since then she has practiced in different classical Yoga traditions as well as the more physical Ashtanga and Iyengar styles. Gizella integrated this wealth of experience into a process towards true and lasting transformation. She reminds her students to become self-aware, mentally, physically, emotionally, energetically, and spiritually.

In her classes, she emphasizes correct alignment of the body in yoga postures to minimize the potential for injuries and to maximize optimal energy flow. She teaches an energetic, challenging and fun class, and excels in modifying poses so that they can be accessible to all levels of students. She inspires her students to extend the practice of yoga by encouraging them to bring the love of yoga into their everyday life.

Keep up your yoga practice & stay on top of your game

Click the icon above and add my RSS Feed to your feed reader; My Yahoo; Google Reader; or Firefox; and get upcoming yoga events, my yoga class schedule changes, free yoga notices, and future bike ride information delivered automatically to your computer.

Raw Food Diet

2009-04-15T21:01:00.000-07:00

A raw food diet is not just good for you - it’s also good science! You don’t have to take our word for it, have ‘faith’ or trust the latest nutrition guru.

Science proves that cooking not only destroys nutrition and enzymes, but chemically changes foods from the substances needed for health into free-radicals and poisons that destroy our health!

Well on 25 April 2008, individuals took a stand & began to bring together people from around the world in a "Movement to Reverse Diabetes Naturally" through the spreading of educational resources on nutrition such as the film “Simply Raw: Reversing Diabetes in 30 Days” and “The Ultimate Encyclopedia of the Raw Food Lifestyle”

And as part of that movement, San Francisco's Team Raw will be hosting a free screening of the movie "Reverse Diabetes in 30 Days" at:

Sports Basement
1590 Bryant Street
San Francisco, CA.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
7-9pm (in the "Grotto")
FREE…

Team Raw believes, "Our health is our most valuable asset and when we start to think about how to best fuel it, it is amazing to see what the body can do to repair itself. Whether you are challenged with an illness or feel in the best of health, this movie will inspire you and may even change your life."

How can you resist? Bring a friend, bring your neighbor, bring the mailman, dad & grandpa because there will be plenty of room for lots of people ....

More details to come - check back (I'll keep you posted).

Raw Food Information:

Team Raw - Yelp Reviews

Raw Food Restaurants - Around the World

Living & Raw Foods

Cafe Gratitude

Alive

Raw Food

Green Yoga Products

What is a raw food diet?

The Best of Raw Food

Sports Basement - Free Yoga Sunday's

2009-04-02T09:12:00.000-07:00

"Free Yoga at Sports Basement"

Much love & thanks,"

- Founder of Sports Basement's Free Yoga Program, Yoga teacher, Tony Eason

Click here & Check out what other's are saying about free yoga at Sports Basement

Over the last 12 months, Sports Basement has sponsored free yoga classes each & every Sunday from 1:00 - 2:30pm. And thanks to the high turn out of yoga students, speed walkers, mothers, coach potatoes, high school students, Fat Tire Beer Specialist, snowboarders and then some, . . .Sports basement has offered it's location for 6 more months, January - June 2009.

So get your shoes. Jump on your bike. Catch the Muni #33, #22, #9 or even the #19 - I'm sure you'll like it.

Sports Basement --San Francisco [map]
1590 Bryant St.
San Francisco, CA
(415) 575-3000

05 April 2009 - Yoga Teacher - Jennifer Leupp

JC teaches a soothing yet challenging flow class that incorporates chanting, beautiful music, and self-acceptance. JC discovered yoga in 2000 when she began taking Hatha Yoga classes to help her with stress while attending school at UC Santa Cruz. After college, JC moved to Los Angeles where she substitute taught in public schools and tried out many different styles of yoga at the Yoga Circle Downtown & the Hollywood YMCA.

In August of 2008, she graduated from the 200 hour Yoga Tree Teacher training. JC’s teaching style is influenced by all of her wonderful teachers, especially Jamie Lindsay, Shad Cruz, Julie Kimball, and Amy Weintraub. JC is interested in studying more about yoga, Vippasana meditation, and Nichiren Buddhism and she is very excited to share her love of yoga with you.

12 April 2009 - Yoga Teacher - Annie Leguennec

I am a student and yoga instructor rooted in the Ashtanga tradition. Swadhyaya:Self Education, study. Not accepting without question. Expanding knowledge through reading, studying, and observation.

19 April 2009 - Yoga Teacher - Liz Saari-Filippone

Liz has been a “mover and a shaker” all her life. Naturally drawn to dance from the time she was a
baby, Liz has had an ongoing love and commitment to movement.

In 2002, Liz became involved in performance art and butoh (a form of movement that emerged out of
post WWII Japan founded by Tasumi Hijikata & Kazuo Uno).

In 2006, She completed a 500 hour yoga teacher training at the Iyengar Institute of San Francisco and continues to study under Iyengar yoga
teacher, Nora Burnett. Liz is a registered yoga teacher through Yoga Alliance. She also graduated from
the Holistic Health Practitioner program at the World School of Massage and Holistic Healing Arts in 2008
and provides empowering coaching to help those who want to reach their most optimal healthy lifestyle
they could ever imagine.

26 April 2009 - Yoga Teacher - Melissa MacDonald

Melissa MacDonald has been practicing yoga since 1998 and is close to completing the two-year Iyengar Advanced Studies/Teacher Training Program. She studies regularly with Iyengar Certified teachers Janet MacLeod and Athena Pappas. Her first yoga class gave her immediate relief from chronic lower back pain and she has been committed ever since.

Melissa is inspired by yoga’s dynamic nature as both a spiritual and a physical discipline founded on ancient philosophical teachings. With precise and thoughtful instructions Melissa guides students into a deeper awareness of themselves enabling them to tap into yoga's gifts of health and transformation.

Keep up your yoga practice & stay on top of your game

Sports Basement - Yoga Teachers:

KFOG KaBoom

2009-03-30T18:33:00.000-07:00

KFOG KaBOOM

Working & surviving in the "City by the Bay" requires that you:

1. Become your own boss
2. Have a backbone
3. Use Logic
4. Possess Awareness

Over the years, I have worked as /or/ been in the following professions:

a. Bartender
b. Gardener
c. Dish Washer
d. Chef
e. House Cleaner
f. Florist
g. Retail Clerk
h. Butler
i. Fine Dining Waiter
j. Camp Counselor
k. Dish Washer
l. Security Guard
m. McDonald's Assistant Manager
n. Runway Model
o. Prostitution
p. Cyclist Trainer
q. Valet
r. Musician
s. Yoga Teacher
t. AIDS activist

Yet in all my years, I have never enjoyed "work" as much as I enjoy working as a V.I.P Bartender at KFOG KABOOM.

16th Annual KFOG KaBoom
Saturday, May 9, 2009, 4pm
Piers 30/32, San Francisco

Tickets go on sale to the public at 10am on Monday, April 6 at Ticketmaster outlets and Ticketmaster.com. Four Packs will be available for a limited time for the family-friendly price of $50 (plus fees), a $10 savings.

This year, Los Lonely Boys and Susan Tedeschi come back to the KFOG KaBoom Stage as well as continuous performances on the Children's Stage, and of course, Northern California's largest fireworks display synchronized to a World Class Rock soundtrack.

And if you can work your way into the KFOG Kaboom V.I.P section:

1. I just might serve you a cocktail.

2. You'll get Bella Luxe.

Lisa Hines - A celebrity chef know for her on-trend lifestyle. The Food Fashionista is the former sous chef to Lulu in San Francisco & the former private chef to (the) Charles Schwab.

3. You can chat it up with the producer of the KFOG Morning Show, & Fellow AIDSLifecycle Cyclist, Greg McQuaid.

4. If you miss that party, then there's always the FAT Tire Beer Bust 2009

Related Links:

KFOG KaBoom 2008

Earth Hour

2009-03-26T12:17:00.000-07:00

1500 Cities Globally Sign up for Earth Hour

More than 1500 cities around the world have committed to turning off their lights for Earth Hour.

Berlin joins other international cities such as Beijing, Copenhagen, Dubai, Hong Kong, London, Mexico City, Moscow, Paris, Sydney and Toronto.

U.S. cities include Albuquerque, Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, Nashville, New York, San Francisco, Tucson, and Washington D.C.

Turn out. Take action.

Be part of this historic event.
March 28, 2009, 8:30 pm local time

World Wildlife Fund is asking individuals, businesses, governments and organizations around the world to turn off their lights for one hour – Earth Hour – to make a global statement of concern about climate change and to demonstrate commitment to finding solutions.

Green Map

"The San Francisco Green Map will connect current and future San Franciscans with their local urban environment and provide practical ways city residents can make more sustainable choices and be stewards of the land on which they live and work."

A Little Greener

"Environmentally conscious living requires understanding the relationships between what we consume, how we work, travel, create and the natural world. Environmentally conscious living does not mean that every choice we make will be the most green, instead it means that we are informed about our behavior and therefore have the opportunity to grow and live with intention."

National Minority AIDS Council

2009-03-25T15:29:00.000-07:00

Today, as I was browsing through Facebook, I noticed an email from the National Minority AIDS Council.

Here's what they had to say:

"The United States Conference on AIDS (USCA), set for October 29-31, 2009, at the Hilton San Francisco Hotel, in San Francisco, California, is an event that you cannot miss.

The largest AIDS-related gathering in the United States, over 3,000 workers from all fronts of the HIV/AIDS epidemic—from case managers and physicians, to public health workers and advocates, people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHAs) to policymakers—come together to build national support networks, exchange the latest information and learn cutting- edge tools to address the challenges of HIV/AIDS.

We hope you will be one of them.

HIV/AIDS in Communities of Color:

Since the HIV/AIDS epidemic began over 25 years ago, HIV/AIDS has had a disproportionate impact on communities of color across the United States.
African Americans represent nearly 50% of all new HIV infections reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) each year, though they compose only 13% of the U.S. population.
Over half of the people in the U.S. who have died of AIDS since the epidemic began in 1981 have been black.
AIDS is one of the leading causes of death overall among people of African descent, and is the number one killer of black women aged 25-34.
For black MSM: A CDC study of MSM found that 46% of the black MSM tested for HIV were positive, compared to 21% of the white MSM and 17% of the Hispanic MSM.
Latinos, who account for nearly 20% of all new HIV/AIDS diagnoses reported to the CDC annually, have a rate of infection that is 3 times higher for males and 5 times higher for females than for their white, non-Hispanic counterparts.
The opening plenary of the United States Conference on AIDS will be dedicated to Latinos.
HIV/AIDS numbers related to Latinos often do not include Puerto Rico, which has reported high rates of HIV infection. The efforts of Puerto Rico’s AIDS agencies have been hampered by controversial issues around government funding.
Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders and Native Americans/Alaska Natives also are reporting rising HIV/AIDS rates.

Why is HIV and AIDS so high among minorities?

Ethnicity, in itself, is not a risk factor for HIV/AIDS; however, the social, economic, educational and political disenfranchisement experienced by many African Americans nationwide have helped fuel HIV infections in black communities.
Young people in general don't know they are at risk.
The media has given the impression that AIDS is happening elsewhere.
Strong stigmas around sexuality and mistrust of health care institutions in many communities of color present barriers to HIV/AIDS outreach, education, testing, treatment and care.

Isn't AIDS a manageable disease, like diabetes?

To some extent, yes - people living with HIV/AIDS, especially when they have access to treatment, are enjoying longer lives.
No one living with HIV/AIDS would advise others to risk becoming positive. AIDS drugs are very powerful and have many side-effects - from short-term memory loss to lipid displacement to facial wasting. Some of these side-effects can seriously undermine your health - especially when coupled with other illnesses, such as hepatitis, diabetes, heart disease, etc.
Once you start drug therapy, you can never stop."

New - San Francisco speaks about Aidslifecycle

An Invitation to Oprah Winfrey & Harpo Studios

Ivengar Yoga Teacher cycles 575 miles - Aidslifecycle 2008

Ivengar Yoga Teacher cycles 575 miles - Aidslifecycle 2007

Ivengar Yoga Teacher cycles 575 miles - Aidslifecycle 2006

Ivengar Yoga Teacher cycles 575 mile s - Aidslifecycle 2005

Aidslifecycle 2009 - Sponsor Online

Fat Tire Beer

2009-02-26T10:36:00.000-08:00

From Chardonnay to cocaine to Shimano to Campagnolo.
From Bianchi to Salsa to Soulcraft.
From 1 mile to 127 miles to 575 miles to 6325 miles to well over 32, 725 miles.
From Start to Finish to Mike's Bikes to Sport Basement & American Cyclery.
From my first yoga class, to becoming a yoga teacher.

Who would have ever thought that an adventure that started off as merely "something to tell the grand children" would bring me onto such a positive & life changing path?

And although the training rides are hard enough, each year, I must raise a minimum of $3000.00 to participate in the AIDSlifecycle, 7 day, 575 mile, bike journey from San Francisco to Los Angeles. Therefore, following tradition, it's time for the Fat Tire Beer Bust Fundraising Party - 2009.

At the Fat Tire Beer Bust Fundraising Party - 2005 we were fortunate to have the presence of "Honey Pot" on the deck.

At the Fat Tire Beer Fundraising Party 2006, we had Crimewave on the deck. DJ "Fresh Freddy" in the house. 2 Kegs of Fat Tire Beer, Ribs, Potatoes salad, Greens, Hot links, Veggie burgers, raffles, and then some. It was a gathering of beautiful girls, hot looking dudes, and people of all ethnic backgrounds and orientations. It rocked the house!

At the Fat Tire Beer Bust Charity Fund raising Party - 2007, the San Francisco Mission District - 94110 was packed. With the Sports Basement Community, AIDS LifeCycle Cyclist, Fat Tire Beer - Ed Dopman, Sister Um Gawd, Retrograde Revolution, "Bella Luxe", DJ Fresh Freddy, and American Cyclery - Tyson, all joining together in the fight against the AIDS Pandemic - we had a great time.

Well at the Fat Tire Beer Bust Party 2008 (besides the usual array of freaks), we had a special treat. After viewing the Evite invitation, Sports Basement employee, Televis noticed that ribs, hot links, and burgers were on the menu. So he phoned me up and said, "Do you need someone to cook - cause I can bring my mother?"

Coming from a Texan background, I had no doubt that "Tank" knew how to work the grill. Walking in with her apron & homemade BBQ sauce, she single handedly threw down some BBQ Ribs, potato salad, hot links, and vegan burgers. And as she looked around, "Tank" noticed that there were "no collard greens" - so she pulled out her cellphone, phoned up a friend, sent her to Food Co. and within 30 minutes - the greens were in the pot.

Fat Tire is so named for the bike trip Jeff took through Belgium that greatly inspired his home brewing efforts."

So if you've attended last year's Fat Tire Beer Charity Fundraising Beer Bust, or plan to attend this year's party on 10 May 2009 - MARK YOUR CALENDAR & please send a thanks out to Brew Meister Jamie Mastin, Ed Dopman, & the Fat Tire Beer Team for their continued support towards charity bike rides, charity benefits, and for their product sponsorships by clicking on their logo (above).

Fat Tire Beer

San Francisco speaks about AIDSLifecycle

An Invitation to Oprah Winfrey & Harpo Productions

Ivengar Yoga Teacher cycles 575 miles - Aidslifecycle 2008

Ivengar Yoga Teacher cycles 575 miles - Aidslifecycle 2007

Ivengar Yoga Teacher cycles 575 miles - Aidslifecycle 2006

Ivengar Yoga Teacher cycles 575 mile - Aidslifecycle 2005

Sports Basement - Free Yoga

2009-02-25T12:00:00.000-08:00

So get your shoes. Jump on your bike. Catch the Muni #33, #22, #9 or even the #19 - I'm sure you'll like it.

Click here & Check out what other's are saying about free yoga at Sports Basement

Sports Basement --San Francisco [map]
1590 Bryant St.
San Francisco, CA
(415) 575-3000

01 March 2009 - Iyengar Yoga Teacher - Tony Eason

Born in San Francisco, Iyengar Yoga Teacher, Tony Eason has been a student of Yoga for fifteen years.As an endurance cyclist, Tony came to yoga for the benefits of stretching.

For five years he studied under Yoga Teacher Mary Friedland. Tony continued to develop his personal practice and teaching skills with the guidance of Yoga Teachers: Kathy Alef, Ben Thomas, Tommijean Thomas PhD, Jaki Nett, and Nora Burnett. He apprenticed under Certified Iyengar Yoga Teacher, Janet MacLeod.

He is a graduate of the Two-year Advanced Teacher Training Program of the Iyengar Yoga Institute of San Francisco.

His classes are based on the traditions of B.K.S. Iyengar.

Through Hatha yoga classes, he teaches students to pay attention to the alignment of their bodies, to become aware of the breath, and to control the mind.

Presently, Tony teaches classes, seminars, and substitute teaches at: James Howell Studio, Club One, Sports Basement and the San Francisco Tennis Club .

Cyclist, beginners, seasoned yoga students, and everyone else, are encouraged to attend his yoga classes

08 March 2009 - Yoga Teacher - Melissa MacDonald

15 March 2009 - Raja Yoga Teacher - Janardhan Chodagam

"Raja Yoga meditation is an open-eyed technique that can be used by anyone, anywhere. Whether you want to learn how to relax, need to be more concentrated and creative or are searching for personal enlightenment, this course can satisfy each of those needs.

Meditation enables you to create new attitudes and responses to life, giving you a clear spiritual understanding of yourself. Like any skill, meditation requires practice to achieve positive and satisfying results. By doing a little every day, it soon becomes a natural and easy habit, which generously rewards you for the little effort it involves.

We will look at:

* Re-discover enjoying and using the positive qualities already latent within you
* Understand your mind and what makes you tick
* Draw peace, strength and tranquillity from a higher source
* Practical guidance in the technique of meditation

Each session will include:
* Know-how
* Philosophy behind meditation and the skill of meditation
* Guided meditation commentaries led by the meditation teacher
* Most importantly a chance to explore what does and doesn't work for you

*This is not a Hatha Yoga Class - this is a seated Raja Yoga meditation class.

22 March 2009 - Yoga Teacher - Lindsay Thomson

29 March 2009 - Kundalini Yoga Teacher - Elle d'Orado

Nirvana yogini Elle d'Orado practices and teaches Hatha & Kundalini yoga, and a variety of meditation techniques. She is certified to teach Samadhi Yoga by Kathleen Hunt, and she completed Doug Swenson's teacher training course in Ashtanga and vinyasa styles. Elle has also studied Kundalini Yoga with Yogi Bhajan at Master's Touch teacher training. Having had a spiritual awakening through this yoga path, she is committed to passing this fun, energizing practice on to others.

Elle also is a practitioner of REIKI. This is a healing technique that addresses pain, alignment and more. It is very relaxing and can help you tune in to your physical, emotional and spiritual selves.

Keep up your yoga practice & stay on top of your game

Sports Basement - Yoga Teachers:

Green Cab

2009-02-19T12:29:00.000-08:00

While coming home from "a night on the town," I finally had the pleasure of riding home in a Green Cab - San Francisco. It was an enjoyable ride. So, I video interviewed one of the founders of Green Cab, "Mort."

Let's see if we can support their grand efforts and increase the fleet.

Green Cab is 24/7 radio dispatched by City Wide Dispatch

When you call 626-4733, please
ask for a CLEAN CAB
the dispatcher will first try
to get a Hybrid or CNG Cab for you.
If all Green Cabs are busy, the nearest regular cab will be dispatched to you.

BEST LOW-EMISSIONS TRANSMISSION

"Mark Gruberg, a taxi driver of 20 years, was tired of getting a whopping 12 miles to the gallon in his company-issued Crown Victoria. So he co-founded a taxi cooperative with Mort (and a few others) that made the iconoclastic transition from yellow to green, literally, and put gas guzzlers to shame.

SF Green Cab hit the streets on April 25, flaunting its ideology on two brightly painted Priuses averaging 40 miles per gallon (city). The company's eight green cabbies can pride themselves on a great deal, both environmentally (the Priuses emit 75 percent less carbon dioxide than the Crown Victorias) and economically (Green Cab maintains the same rates as other city taxis). The now-four-cab fleet promises to be the post-last call mode of greenerati transportation, and it brings the city one step closer to keeping Mayor Gavin Newsom's boisterous promise of having only clean-and-green taxis on the streets by 2011 (though we hope Green Cab doesn't have to do the rest all on its own)." -

(415) 626-GREEN, www.sfgreencab.com

San Francisco Green:

Powerhouse

2009-02-12T11:07:00.000-08:00

Sometimes, we wonder - "What if?" And then, we say "nah, that would never happen . . " And we continue our daily existence by accepting what is offered rather than taking responsibility and going after what we desire . . . . We take the route that requires the best combination
of minimal intellect & minimal effort . . . We desire to whip up a Bella Lux style meal. Yet, when it's all "said & done," we settle for eating a frozen pizza.

Well recently, Charles Hemphill has decided to pass up the frozen pizza and do his part for the San Francisco Bay Area community by running for "Mr. Powerhouse Leather."

And although most think leather is all about "fetish." ... there are great intentions behind the clothing.

Charles Hemphill

Age: 26

Favorite Book: Paradise Lost

When asked "what moved you to take on this adventure," Charles stated "I would like to become more involved with the Bay Area Community and to use the "Mr Powerhouse Leather" title as a way to focus my energies & assist in bettering the community where ever I can."

Who will be the 11th Mr. Powerhouse Leather? You never know - Be sure to attend - .

So again - It doesn't matter what you've been through . . ..
It doesn't matter what your age, creed, sexual orientation, economic status, or location is ..
It only matters what "you do."

So see what you can do - "Today!"

Perhaps you too can assist in creating a better world.

AIDS San Francisco

2009-02-06T21:59:00.000-08:00

Several individuals within the Aidslifecycle Community were asked to reflect on and comment about the 575 mile, 7 day journey from San Francisco to Los Angeles. Here's what they had to say:

Name: Spill Kincaid

Education: San Francisco State University, S.F. CA.
Height: 5' 11"
Weight: 160 lbs.
Age: 28
Birth Place/Origin: Origin: Lexington,Kentucky
Occupation: Author, "Goat in the Tower"
Present Location /Where do you live? San Francisco, CA 94131
Favorite Book: "Goat in the Tower"

What do you think is the world's greatest asset?

- A backyard with a row of okra, squash, mustard greens, kale, beets, and a watermelon patch in the shade. . . .

If you could make one wish for humanity what would it be?

- My wish is . . ...that every family would have "cromag" rims, a titanium Nordic Track, and enough gasoline to feed the children.

How has the AIDS/HIV Pandemic affected you?

- It effects me because, it effects my brother man ............ Once upon a time, I was in the loonybin. I was in line to receive my daily medication. And, I was with a fellow patient, my good friend Tim.

Tim was aware of his HIV Status. Tim had AIDS. He was in line to receive the results of his blood test. The test results showed his T-cell count had dropped significantly below normal. At that moment, I witnessed him crumble.

Because of our "suicidal intent," Tim and I were admitted to the loonybin. Tim failed to "off himself" because he really wanted to live. Tim had contracted AIDS years before, but when so few cells were left in his body to allow him to fight, when he faced death without a choice, then .. .I realized how important an answer is needed to cure HIV/Aids.

Name: Tia Barnard

Occupation: Network Engineer - AKA "Geek"
Height: 5' 6"
Weight: 200 lbs.
Age: 32
Present Location /Where do you live? San Francisco, CA 94117
Favorite Book: Cat's Eye by Margaret Atwood

What AIDS Charity events have you participated in?

- In 1999 & 2000, I was a cyclist in the " Twin Cities to Chicago" AIDS Ride.
In 2004, I was a crewmember / roadie in the " HOPE Ride " (now called the ACT Ride).
In 2005, I participated as a cyclist in the "Ride for AIDS - Chicago."

As an American Women, why is it important for women to participate in the AIDS LifeCycle Event?

- AIDS is a human disease. It effects all communities. It is important for our friends & family to be cared for and educated. I believe in our society women are given the caretaker role, and we need to be compassionate and responsible with that role. The Aidslifecycle event allows me to help speak out, educate and raise money for people with AIDS, who are often looked over or feared by society, where compassion is more appropriate.

Name: Christopher Matthew Altman

Education: Bowdoin College, Maine / College of Soma
Height: 5' 9"
Weight: ? lbs.
Age: 35
Birth Place/Origin: Origin: Boston, Mass.
Occupation: Arborist / Bartender
Present Location /Where do you live? San Francisco, CA 94118
Favorite Book: The Botany of Desire

As a 1st Yr. Aidslifecycle cyclist, what would you like to see more of in the cycling community?

- It would be nice to see more respect in the bicycle community for fellow cyclist. For example: When fellow cyclists pass me and they pass too close (without a warning) - it scares me - I feel like their gonna hit me. And, I'm afraid I'm gonna wanna beat them up. It creates "road rage." Passing without giving a warning is rude, it's dangerous, and someone may get hurt.

Who is your greatest hero?
- Harvey Milk .

And what is your greatest fear?
- That my family will somehow find out I have HIV.

Name: Sonya Prybutok
Education: BA, English & Rhetoric, UC Berkeley
Height: 5' 5"
Weight: 121lbs.
Age: 35
Birth Place/Origin: New York
Occupation: Marketing consultant
Present Location /Where do you live? San Francisco, CA 94131
Favorite Book: "Hard Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World"

Starting with which AIDS Ride, how many times have you participated?

- California AIDS Ride #7 (I think?). And this will be my 5th ride.

As a 5th Yr. Veteran, if you had one thing to say to "first time participants," what would it be?

- It's impossible to fail! This will be one of those life changing experiences that you WILL remember for a life time! You are stronger thenyou think.

Also, which day of the seven day event do you find the most challenging - and why?

- Day 4. Here's why...The first day is pure adreneline, and we have a wonderful tail wind, so we sail into Santa Cruz, and we're filled with joy and excitement about what's to come. Day 2 we are still up and thrilled and it's a really flat and easy journey (though it's one of the longest days). In general, I always find that the 3rd day of riding in a row (on and off the ride) I am stronger then day 2 - my legs know what to do. It's day 4, when you wake tired and sore with new saddle sores in all the WRONG places, and you realize that you still have 3 more days of riding to go that SUCKS...BUT, when you make it over the day 4 hump and we start to wind our way back to the coast - your spirits are lifted again...

Name: John Reichel
Education: Westfalische - Wilhelms - Universitat Munster
Height: 180 cm.
Weight: 79.5 kg.
Age: 45
Birth Place/Origin: Cleveland, Ohio.
Occupation: Studienrat
Present Location /Where do you live? 22769 Hamburg, Germany
Favorite Book: "Eleven Minutes" by Paulo Coelho

From your California AIDS Ride #6 Experience, what was the most memorable moment?

Ich erinnere mich an meinen ersten Tag, alles war sehr aufregend und spannend. Habe ich auch nichts vergessen? Sind die Wasserflasehen gefullt? Wo kommt das Gepack hin? Mit wem werde ich das Zelt teilen? Wie wird es wohl sein, wenn 3, 000 Radler den California AIDS Ride beginnen? Eins war mir bei all der Aufregung auf jeder fall entgangen. Dies machte sich gleich beim ersten Pit-Stop "schmezlich" bemerkbar. Immerhin ca. 15 bis 20 Toiletten nahmen uns in Empfang. Dennoch bildeten sich von den Tueren Schlagen ca. 10 Personnen und ich begann hochzurechnen, wie lange es noch bis zum Ersehnten dauern wuerde. Den Moment , als vor mir das Tuerzeichen von rot auf gruen wechselte, werde ich nie vergessen.

P.S.
Du=ieses Problem sollte in den folgenden Tagens des California AIDS Rides nicht wieder auftreten, da die 3000 Radler danach nicht nicht mehr gleichzeitig die Tagestouren starteten und somit die Pit-Stops nie ueberlaufen waren.

And if you could say one thing to "first time" Aidslifecycle participants - what would you say?

Informiere dich ausfuehrlich und rechtzeitig
+ Offizielle Site of AIDS LifeCycle
+ Tony's Site

Statte dich mit einem sehr guten Rennrad aus, das macht vieles einfacher

Beginne rechtzeitig mit dem Training
+ get your body in a good shape
+ trainiere regelmaessig und progressiv (feste Termine sind hilfreich, z.B. jeden Dienstag und jeden Samstag)
+ der Besenwagen sollte immer nur die letzte Moeglichkeit sein, an das Tagesziel zu kommen

Mache dich vor dem ersten Training mit den Verhalten- und Sicherheitsregeln fuer das Radfahren vertraut!!!

Bilde Traininggruppen (du solltest mindestens einen Trainingspartner haben)

Geniesse jeden Tag beim Training und beim AIDS-Ride

Lasse deine Freunde, Familie und Sponsoren an deinen Erlebnissen teilhaben
+ Photo-CD , Web-Blog , Email, Brief, ....

Wenn du beim AIDS-Ride schnell fahren moechtest, musst du morgens moeglichst frueh aufstehen ("je schneller, desto frueher"), da du sonst den ganzen Tag die langsameren Fahrer ueberholen musst. Dass ist langweilig und mitunter auch gefaehrlich.

Alles gute fuer deine Tour, ich waere auch gerne wieder mit dabei.

Name: Michael May - AKA "Miles"
Education: Currently Studying Community Outreach - S.F. City College
Height: 5' 11"
Weight: 145lbs.
Age: 42
Birth Place/Origin: ?
Occupation: IHSS Consortium
Present Location /Where do you live? ?
Favorite Book: "My Journal and Sketch Book"

As a first time Aidslifecycle Cyclist, Rider #6154, how did you find out about aidslifecycle?

- I know people who have ridden before.

What would you like to gain from your upcoming 575 mile, 7 day, journey to Los Angeles?

- This ride is a personal challenge for me. I have many friends affected by AIDS / HIV and others who have died. They are part of the reason I am riding, I love them so much. When some of them where sick, there was nothing could do to help them. This is a way of helping them and remembering them, and helping others. Also, it is a way for me to focus and workout my anger. AIDS has made me very angry.

What would your mother think about your upcoming endeavor?

- My mother would think that I was crazy to ride all the way from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

Name: Eric
Education: Studying for a Bachelor's in Journalism - S.F. State University
Height: 6' 3"
Weight: 140lbs.
Age: 20
Birth Place/Origin: San Jose, CA--though I grew up largely in Charleston, South Carolina
Occupation: Student Journalist - Cashier
Present Location /Where do you live? San Francisco, CA 94133
Favorite Book: "House of Leaves" by Mark Danielewski

As a San Francisco Resident, has the AIDS Pandemic affected your immediate community of friends, family, or self? And if so, how?

My uncle died of AIDS shortly after I was born, and it has always been a taboo subject in my family. I know his death was and continues to be difficult on many fronts, but I often wonder if the fact that he was gay also has anything to do with why I never hear stories about him.

As a fellow cyclist, have you ever heard of and/or considered participating in the Aidslifecycle Event? And, what would it take to get you involved?

I've never heard of it (before today, anyway), but all it would take is a free week and whatever money I had to contribute! It sounds like a great event in so many ways.

In what ways does the Aidslifecycle Event sound like a great event?

AIDS LifeCycle excites the hell out of me because "pedal power" excites the hell out of me. The realization that I can go anywhere I need to by the strength of my own legs was almost religious to me, and to see that principal en mass over hundreds of miles would be something both humbling and empowering. I think an event like this would naturally work for the greater good, and to be a huge source of revenue for fighting a horrible pandemic...I'd surely hop on a bike for that.

And, if you could suggest one thing that other human beings could do to assist in making the world a better place, what would it be?

To be honest, following the vectors of their passions whenever possible. Nothing creates more positive social capital than a person for whom existence is joy.

Name: Rich
Education: Robert Morris College (1 year)
Height: 5'11"
Weight: 206lbs.
Age: 46
Birth Place/Origin: Dover, DE (USA)
Occupation: VP Sales & Marketing
Present Location /Where do you live? San Francisco, CA 94127
Favorite Book: "The Front Runner" by Patricia Nell Warren

How many years have you supported the California AIDS Ride / Aidslifecycle Event? And, why do you continue to support these events?

I have been a supporter of the California AIDS Ride / Aidslifecycle Event for the past 8 years. I continue my committment because I personally lost four very close and many not so close friends to this damn disease and they ain't coming back. My financial and emotional support to this cause and others helps me confront and deal with the daily reality that there are still folks, ones who are close and not so close friends and family of others who are still being infected and dying; with no cure in the near horizon.

The courage, stamina and enthusiasm of the many riders and support teams that make the ride to LA are something that my friends Jerriese, Michael Troy, Brian and Natalie, were they alive today, would have also wanted to take part in to continue to fight to find a cure and help spread the prevention message." - Rich

Nane: Djalma Fonseca - "Mr. Rio"
Education: College
Height: 5-11
Weight: 178lbs
Age: 41
Birth Place/Origin: Rio De Janeiro, Brasil
Occupation: Registered Nurse
Present Location/Where do you live? San Francisco, CA 94110
Favorite Book: When Things Fall Apart

As a 7th yr. veteran cyclist, what words of wisdom would you give to “first time cyclist?” Also, if you could add one thing to the Aidslifecycle Experience – what would it be?

My advice to first time cyclist would be: train, train, train. Don't forget to do "back-to-back" rides especially towards the end of training season. One thing to add to the Aidslifecycle experience:

The return of DISCO NIGHT.

Support Tony in AIDSlifecycle 2009 - Donate online

San Francisco speaks about Aidslifecycle

An Invitation to Oprah Winfrey & Harpo Productions

Ivengar Yoga Teacher cycles 575 miles - Aidslifecycle 2007

Ivengar Yoga Teacher cycles 575 miles - Aidslifecycle 2006

Ivengar Yoga Teacher cycles 575 mile s - Aidslifecycle 2005

San Francisco Bay Guardian

2009-01-14T19:43:00.000-08:00

It is not often that you can find me laughing away at a newspaper publication, But today - I laughed - read and re read the "The Hard Times Handbook" by the San Francisco Guardian,

Written on these pages, you can find:

Free Food
Free Movies
Free Music
Cheap drinks.
Cheap restaurants.
Cheap dates.
Low-cost health care.
How to survive unemployment or an eviction attempt.

And as I continued to read, I saw "free yoga." This handbook is a wonderful gift to the community. Check it out!

FREE YOGA

"You may be broke, but you can still stay limber. San Francisco is home to scores of studios and karmically-blessed souls looking to do a good turn by making yoga affordable for everyone.

One of the more prolific teachers and donation-based yoga enthusiasts is Tony Eason, who trained in the Iyengar tradition. His classes, as well as links to other donation-based teachers, can be found at ynottony.com. Another great teacher in the Anusara tradition is Skeeter Barker, who teaches classes for all levels Mondays and Wednesdays from 7:45 to 9:15 p.m. at Yoga Kula, 3030a 16th St. (recommended $8–$10 donation).

Sports Basement also hosts free classes every Sunday at three stores: Bryant Street from 1 to 2 p.m., the Presidio from 11a.m. to noon, and Walnut Creek 11 a.m. to noon. Bring your own mat.

But remember: even yoga teachers need to make a living — so be fair and give what you can. "
(Amanda Witherell)

Related Links:

San Francisco Bay Guardian

Aidslifecycle Kick Off

2009-01-02T15:48:00.000-08:00

Who would have ever thought that an adventure that started off as merely "something to tell the grand children" would bring me onto such a positive & life changing path?

From Chardonnay to cocaine to Shimano to Campagnolo.
From Bianchi to Salsa to Soulcraft.
From 1 mile to 127 miles to 575 miles to 6325 miles to well over 32, 725 miles by bike.
From Start to Finish to Mike's Bikes to Sport Basement & American Cyclery.
From 24hr Fitness to Gold's Gym to Club One.
From my first yoga class with Mary Friedland, to a 2yr. Advanced Teacher Training Program at the Iyengar Yoga Institute to becoming a yoga teacher and implementing Free Yoga Sunday's at Sports Basement.

Question: "Who would have ever thought that I would become an athlete?"
Answer: "Not me."

Over the last 15 years, my friends have supported my endeavors to create my "best life, my family has met me at each & every finish line, Suzanne Africa Engo has proved that I'm not the only crazy one, and I have learned that I can assist in relieving the suffering of others while simultaneously empowering myself. And for these experiences and empowerments - I am very thankful.

Following my annual tradition, on 01 January at 10:00am, I invited friends, yoga students, strangers, and fellow cyclist to join me in celebrating my positive life changes at my "12th Annual Aidslifecycle Kickoff - Bike Ride ."

At 10:00am, Fried Chicken & Waffles were served. At 12:30pm, 25 cyclist (and about 14 hang overs) headed for the Marin Headlands Loop. Returning back to the San Francisco Mission District, we celebrated with New Belgium Beer's (and then some).

So as the new year comes upon us - remember, it does not matter:

1. Where you came from ...
2. What obstacles are in your way ....
3. What others may think of you ...
4. Why that would never work ......
5. Or starting tomorrow .......

It's about doing!
Change can only come "from you."
And if I can change my ways - so can you .....

Wishing the best of all possible worlds,
tony

Related Links:

Aidslifecycle 2009 - Sponsor Online

Aidslifecycle Kickoff Party 2007

Aidslifecycle

San Francisco speaks about Aidslifecycle

An Invitation to Oprah Winfrey & Harpo Productions

Ivengar Yoga Teacher cycles 575 miles - Aidslifecycle 2007

Ivengar Yoga Teacher cycles 575 miles - Aidslifecycle 2006

Ivengar Yoga Teacher cycles 575 mile s - Aidslifecycle 2005

Free Yoga Classes

2008-12-31T12:28:00.000-08:00

Free Yoga Classes - Sports Basement - January 2009

Looking for that New Year's Resolution?

Over the last 12 months, Sports Basement has offered free yoga classes each & every Sunday from 1:00 - 2:30pm. And thanks to the high turn out of yoga students, speed walkers, mothers, coach potatoes, snowboarders and then some . . .Sports basement has offered it's location for 6 more months - January - June 2009. For more information, please visit: http://ynottony.com/sports%20basement.htm

So get your shoes. Jump on your bike. And let’s bring on the New Year - I think you'll like it.
Sports Basement
1590 Bryant St.
San Francisco, CA
415) 575-3000

04 January 2009 - Yoga Teacher - Tony Eason

Yoga Teacher, Tony Eason has been a student of Yoga for fifteen years. As an endurance cyclist, Tony came to yoga for the benefits of stretching. He is a graduate of the Two-year Advanced Teacher Training Program of the Iyengar Yoga Institute of San Francisco. Through Hatha yoga classes, he teaches students to pay attention to the alignment of their bodies, to become aware of the breath, and to control the mind.

Presently, Tony teaches classes, seminars, and substitute teaches at: James Howell Studio, Club One, Gold's Gym , Sports Basement and the San Francisco Tennis Club . Cyclist, beginners, seasoned yoga students, and everyone else, are encouraged to attend his yoga classes.

11 January 2009 - Yoga Teacher - Jennifer Leupp

18 January 2009 - Yoga Teacher - Gizella Donald

25 January 2009 – Yoga Teacher – Melissa McDonald

The first yoga class I went to gave me immediate relief from my lower back pain and I knew without doubt I had stumbled upon a precious gift: I was committed. After ten years of practice, including participation in a two-year Iyengar teacher training program, I now teach yoga. My precise and thoughtful instruction of the yoga poses guides students into a deeper awareness of themselves enabling them to tap into yoga's gifts of health and transformation.

Keep up your yoga practice & stay on top of your game

Sports Basement - Yoga Teachers:

Iyengar Yoga Teacher, tony eason cycles 585 miles for AIDS Charity

Mission Bicycle

Mission Bicycle

Related Links:

Michael Jackson - R.I.P.

Yogapalooza

Yogapalooza - San Francisco

Related Breast Cancer Links:

AIDSLifeCycle - Santa Cruz to King City - Day #2

AIDSLifeCycle Day #2

The AIDSLifeCycle Experience:

AIDSLifeCycle - "San Francisco to Santa Cruz" - Day #1

AIDSLifeCycle Day #1

The AIDSLifeCycle Experience:

ALC Party 2009

AIDSLifeCycle Fat Tire Beer Fund raising Party:

The AIDSLifeCycle Experience:

AIDSLifeCycle - The Beginning

AIDSLifeCycle - Day Zero / Registration Day

AIDSLifeCycle - Day #1 / San Francisco to Santa Cruz

AIDS Rides:

Waffle Bike

Wow!Love it!

WAFFLE BIKE!

AIDSLifeCycle 2009

Mike's Bikes

Bike Shop - Pushbike

Related Links:

Free Yoga Classes - San Francisco

"Free Yoga at Sports Basement"

Keep up your yoga practice & stay on top of your game

Raw Food Diet

Raw Food Information:

Sports Basement - Free Yoga Sunday's

"Free Yoga at Sports Basement"

05 April 2009 - Yoga Teacher - Jennifer Leupp

19 April 2009 - Yoga Teacher - Liz Saari-Filippone

Keep up your yoga practice & stay on top of your game

Sports Basement - Yoga Teachers:

KFOG KaBoom

KFOG KaBOOM

Earth Hour

1500 Cities Globally Sign up for Earth Hour

Green Map

National Minority AIDS Council

"The United States Conference on AIDS (USCA), set for October 29-31, 2009, at the Hilton San Francisco Hotel, in San Francisco, California, is an event that you cannot miss.

Wow!

Love it!