This article appeared in the Eureka Reporter on 17 September 2007.

Humboldt State University student Sara Dykman participates in car-free day every day to contribute to helping the environment.

“I’ve never owned a car,” said the 22-year-old Kansas City native. “I’ve never needed to; I love biking and the challenge of it.”

Dykman, president of Humboldt State University’s Green Wheels club, wants to encourage everyone in the community to participate in Green Wheels’ fifth annual Car Free Day and Tour D’Arcata.

The event will take place Thursday starting at 7 a.m. from three locations, which are Mad River Community Hospital, Bayside Grange and The Arcata Plaza.

Bikers will join up at HSU for a free community-sponsored breakfast.

Dykman said 200 people participated last year and 400 are expected this year. “The Tour D’Arcata is my favorite part because it’s like a big parade,” said Peter Lynch, a recent HSU graduate and Green Wheels HSU member.

Lynch said he will be one of two riders on a two-person tricycle set up to tow nearly 600 pounds.

The baggage Lynch will be towing? Green Wheels HSU member Tommy Viducich on roller skates.

Viducich didn’t seem worried.

“I’m an expert roller skater from childhood,” he said.

Lynch said participants are encouraged to use any form of transportation other than cars on the day of the event, such as roller skates, skateboards, scooters or even their own two feet.

Dykman said that as a treat, the club will be showing a bike-in/walk-in movie, “We are Traffic,” on the HSU quad at 8 p.m.

“It’s kinda like a drive-in except no cars,” she said.

There will be a drawing during the movie showing for prizes such as water bottles, gift certificates and a bike built by members of Green Wheels HSU.

Dykman said anyone is welcome to attend the Green Wheels HSU meetings that take place every Tuesday at 5 p.m. in the South Lounge underneath the HSU bookstore.

She also mentioned that there is a community Green Wheels meeting at the Northcoast Environmental Center on Mondays at 6:30 p.m.

Dykman said the group is still seeking volunteers to help organize traffic on the day of the event. Those who are interested in helping should email wheels@humboldt.edu.

Dykman said her bike has been everywhere with her and she loves the freedom of not having to depend on anyone.

“When you drive, you’re isolated from your environment,” she said. “When you’re biking, you see your friends and it’s so much more fun.”