A total of 420 bicycle kits were assembled in 2 1/2 hours during the Bikes For Tykes Bicycle Assembly Day on Saturday, Dec. 16. That was a record for the project, according to Dale Long, project co-chair.

"We couldn't have done this, and had so much fun doing it, without the cooperation of Rose-Hulman students. The students' can-do attitude is contagious," Long said.

The event allows Rose-Hulman students to put their problem-solving skills to good use in a valuable community service project, according to football coach Steve Englehart. The team has assisted with this project for the past four years.

"The players look forward to helping with this campus activity. I never have problems getting players to give up their time, during the off season, to volunteer for this project," Englehart said. "This helps build teamwork and friendships that are beneficial for our football program."

Starting at 8 a.m., several football players unloaded the bicycle kits from a tractor trailer to 35 work stations throughout Rose-Hulman's Facilities Operations Center on campus. Then, at 8:30 a.m., players joined other Rose-Hulman student-athletes, fraternity and sorority members, and residence hall students in assembling the seven size groups of bicycles and tricycles. There were also inspection and distribution areas.