Bicycle Valets by Jim Parks on Creators.com

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Bicycle Valets

If you're traveling in Charlotte, N.C., and can afford to stay at the Ritz-Carlton, you'll witness the green movement reaching even the upper crust of hotel chains. This brand new LEED building — Charlotte's first and the Ritz-Carlton's first — features a green vegetated roof, employee uniforms made from recycled plastics as well as an in-house Natura water filtration system. But the most interesting aspect is the complete bike valet service offered by the hotel.

The valets, trained in bicycle maintenance and repair, will outfit you with a Trek Lime if you're a woman or a Trek Urban if you're a man.

You will also receive a local map, a water bottle, a lock and a safety helmet.

After shopping at the many local stores or investigating the nearby farmers market that specializes in cheeses, fresh produce and organic bread, upon your return to the hotel you'll be greeted with a welcome-back chilled water and towel service.

Questions can be sent to Jim Parks at jrparks@mac.com. To find out more about Jim Parks and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.