Hey everyone! My name is Michael George and I am more than excited to be a participant in Bike & Build this year. I’m originally from sunny Fort Myers, a city located on the southwest coast of Florida. A few years ago I made the big move up north to attend New York University. Although I love the energy of the city I’ve found that I feel most alive when I’m playing ultimate frisbee, running on the beach, or hiking a mountain. I am currently a photography and imaging major within the Tisch School of the Arts. Being a working photographer ( http://www.inceptivenotions.com ), adventure seems to be embedded in my veins. I’m also a major advocate for community service, human rights, and general quality of life issues. Since my arrival to the city I’ve had the opportunity to work with many organizations through various NYU departments. My most fulfilling work came from my experience with the Housing Works Bookstore. The bookstore, which is part of the larger non-profit Housing Works, is almost entirely run by volunteers. Housing Works is an organization that works to provide treatment and shelter for homeless people living with AIDS.
In high school I made a promise to myself that I would bike across the United States before I was 25. While discussing this idea over the summer, a friend of a friend referred me to Bike & Build. Once I’d discovered the organization I couldn’t stop thinking about it. Not only did it sound like a photographer’s dream but the program also combines almost all of my interests. We’ll be biking to raise awareness of one of the most important issues facing us today. Too often people take for granted that they have a roof over their heads, clean water from their faucets, and food on the table. While walking down the city streets I’m constantly reminded that even in this prosperous nation there is an incredibly large amount of people without these basic necessities.
Last year I moved to SoHo and in order to avoid the congestion of tourists on the sidewalks I began my initiation as an NYC biker. This initiation included learning to dodge pedestrians, yellow cabs, and 9 million potholes. Biking soon became the perfect escape from the stresses of academia. I’ve always wanted to take my biking to the next level but it’s going to be a grand leap from biking to class to biking across the country. Regardless I know I’ll be making the journey with friends that will last much longer than our eight weeks on the road. As a photographer I’ll be sure to document everything along the way. I’ve got an insatiable curiosity and unending positivity. I’ve always got a camera around my neck and a smile on my face. Bike & Build 2010 will be grueling but incredibly rewarding. Let’s go!
Michael's photos
