RIDES Offers Cash, Prizes in Earth Day "Alternative Commute" Event

By Hacienda Pulse Staff Writer

RIDES for Bay Area Commuters is giving local employees an opportunity to make the world a little greener with a special Earth Day Promotion.

Try any commute alternative at least once before Earth Day, April 22, and you're eligible to enter a drawing for a variety of prizes, including the grand, green prize of $1,000 cash. Other prizes include a romantic wine-tasting weekend in Napa Valley, gift certificates for movies, CDs, and more.

RIDES also offers "commute consultations," to help point out the many possibilities available to Bay Area commuters. RIDES can provide lists of potential carpool/vanpool partners, bicycle advice, or transit assistance. Just call 800-755-POOL or visit www.rides.org. Best of all, RIDES services come at no cost.

Virtually any commute alternative qualifies for the drawing: carpools and vanpools, mass transit, walking or cycling to work, or even telecommuting.

To enter the contest, simply visit the RIDES web site and enter online. Entry forms are also available from the Hacienda Owners Association (925/734-6500) or by calling RIDES. Entry forms must be received by April 30 to qualify.

RIDES also provides posters and entry forms to companies that want to promote the Earth Day promotion.

RIDES also offers free on-site lunchtime presentations on commute alternatives.

"We hand out information on all transportation venues, such as BART, buses, or ACE; Pleasanton's Guaranteed Ride Home program; and information on biking, including maps of Bay Area bike trails," explains Shelley Sparkman of RIDES. "We also encourage individuals to sign up to receive a free carpool/vanpool match-list."

To make an appointment for a lunchtime event or for assistance and promotional materials on the Earth Day event, contact Sparkman at (510) 273-2067 or via e-mail .

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RIDES Offers Cash, Prizes in Earth Day "Alternative Commute" Event