According to the 2000 U.S. Census, there are roughly 4000 people in Miami-Dade County who ride their bicycles to work. Unfortunately since the census count was done, most of these bikers are now dead. Because of ever-increasing traffic congestion, snotty Metro Bus drivers who relish cutting off urban bicyclists, and just plain mean motherfuckers in SUVs, those poor souls are now roadkill. Okay, maybe not, but there's no denying that riding a bike in our urban sprawl takes cojones. To make biking and walking around our city a more pleasurable and safe experience, the Miami-Dade Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Committee hosts monthly meetings in which the public is invited to create better pathways for urban biking. Since the late '80s the committee has helped steer bike access projects such as the ride beneath the Metrorail and is currently working on a plan for biking the Miami River. The next meeting begins at 7:00 p.m. at South Miami City Hall, 6103 Sunset Dr. Call 305-375-1647.--By Juan Carlos Rodriguez
Saturday 5/24
Golden Anniversary
More than 50 years ago North Miami city clerk E. May Avil watched over the town's small collection of books in a makeshift library tucked into a corner of the former city hall. Avil may be gone now but in its own building since 1953, bigger and better than ever, is the E. May Avil North Miami Public Library (835 NE 132nd St.). The literary repository celebrates its 50th birthday in style today from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. with music, dance, kiddie activities, historical and cultural displays, food, drink, and, of course, a mini book sale. Admission is free. For details call 305-891-5535. -- Nina Korman
