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Bike to Basics

For more than 15 years, Corinthian-Hammonton Lodge No. 9 in Marysville has supported local public schoolchildren in a unique way – through a bicycle giveaway program.

Each year, the lodge selects one school in Yuba County to receive bicycles. Lodge members work with local school principals and teachers to identify and select deserving students, who are recognized by lodge members in front of teachers and peers.

This year’s event rewarded 16 underprivileged students at Arboga Elementary School who have overcome obstacles to excel at their studies. Each bicycle was presented with a helmet to encourage safety.

Past Master Clinton Claxton has chaired the program since 1996. To date, the lodge has donated more than 250 bicycles to children in public schools throughout Yuba County.

Sponsorship comes from members and widows, as well as community members. Treasurer Bob Lovell, P.M., explains, “We even receive donations from people outside of the lodge who are aware of the program.”

Photo: Students from Yuba County receive bicycles from Corinthian-Hammonton Lodge No. 9 at a local awards ceremony.