Bashar Al-Assad Introduces Syrian Bike-Sharing Program

Bashar Al-Assad Introduces Syrian Bike-Sharing Program
http://www.theonion.com/articles/bashar-alassad-introduces-syrian-bikesharing-progr,33320/

DAMASCUS—Saying that the initiative will reduce vehicle traffic,
improve local air quality, and foster a strong sense of community,
Syrian President Bashar al-Assad announced Tuesday that city
transportation authorities across the nation will soon launch
SyriaCycles, a new bike-sharing program allowing urban residents to
access bicycles for short-term trips without worrying about storage or
maintenance. "Transportation is a key factor in the quality of life
for any urbanite, and SyriaCycles ensures that city-dwellers all over
the country can travel conveniently and efficiently; it's fast, easy,
and fun," Assad said of the new transportation system, explaining that
commuters can pay daily or yearly subscription fees to access a fleet
of one-size-fits-all bicycles stationed at hundreds of rental hubs
across numerous Syrian cities. "All you have to do is look for the row
of orange-and-gray bicycles, unlock your ride with your unique
CitiKey, and you're on your way! And of course, in the interest of
safety, we would like to remind all SyriaCycles members to always wear
their bike helmets." Assad added that he hopes 2013 in Syria will be
remembered as the Year of the Bicycle