By David Schweidenback
Fall 2021 Newsletter

I started Pedals for Progress in 1991 in my late 30s. I ended up recruiting a number of recent retirees in their early 60s who were looking for a second career. They became the core of our bicycle collections. I am now 69. We have lost many of these important cogs in the wheel.

In the next couple of newsletters I would like to honor some of these good friends and instrumental movers in the success of Pedals for Progress. I did not create this organization by myself. I have had a lot of help, from many role models.

Here I would like to speak about Bob Gleason, who passed away on October 1st, 2021. (Obituary) Entrepreneur, bike shop owner, such a good soul. Bob built the first BMX course in New Jersey to promote the sport. He served the greater Freehold, New Jersey, area as a predominant bike shop for decades.

Through his bike shop he offered trade-ins, at his loss, which he donated to P4P. Late in life he became interested in antique bikes and he helped market the rare antique bikes we sometimes receive.

Bob always had a smile on his face and a chuckle in his speech. He was a truly jolly person and you came away from meeting him with your day improved.

Men like Bob Gleason have inspired me to be a better person. To work harder and longer for the disadvantaged. They became my role models.