BCOY Honorable Mention: Maria "Kupcake" Garcia
We're proud to introduce Maria "Kupcake" Garia as our honorable mention for Bike Commuter of the Year! Here's what Maria has to say about why she rides:
Why do I like to bike hmm where do I begin??? I like to bike first and foremost for my health. Staying healthy is important for me because I want to be around for many many more years. Commuting to work helps me clear my mind and lets me get ready for the work day. I also love riding around neighborhoods and seeing the pretty houses and did I mention the super cool bike lanes that are being placed. Oh I guess cycling with friends for beer should be mentioned ;-) they made me do it
Maria was nominated by her friend Lloyd, who is impressed by Maria's dedication to biking and generous spirit.
Maria "Kupcake" Garcia is an example of the diverse group of people that are everyday bike commuters. Like many riders, she started with some short local rides and participated in San Jose Bike Party events, then realized she could easily handle the commute to work. Once she figured out a good route and a plan for parking her bike and handling her work clothes, the commute became routine for her. As a healthcare worker, the global pandemic did not stop her from using her bicycle to commute frequently during past year.She is an outspoken advocate of bicyclists' rights while on the road, frequently stopping to educate drivers who encroach on bicycling infrastructure. She even had some custom t-shirts printed with the CVC rules that apply to bicycling.Outside of commuting, Maria uses her bicycle to run errands, to go on bike camping trips, and to search for the best quesabirra spots. She finds time to use her bicycle for worthy causes, such as doing deliveries for Valley Verde and Veggielution, raising money and riding for BikeMS (Waves to Wine). She has volunteered with SVBC to lead rides and to stuff bags for Bike to Work Day. She uses her bicycle to deliver food and other necessities to unhoused people in and around San Jose.
To top it off, SVBC staff knows Maria as an eager volunteer, active community member, and all-around fun person. We hope the way Maria finds so much joy on her bike inspires others to ride. Keep pedaling, Kupcake!