January 5

Every Thursday from 3 to 7, Free Wheel hosts an open bike shop. Participants can learn about bikes and how to restore, fix, alter, or beautify their bikes by themselves. This is at Free Wheel, 1818 South Park Street. For more information, call 256-FREE.

AnySoldier.com seeks to connect interested parties with soldiers serving abroad. Participants can send letters or packages to those serving in foreign countries. AnySoldier.com started to help those serving under harsh conditions who lack many basic amenities or just need someone to write. To help, check www.anysolder.com.

The Madison Area Family Advisory/Advocacy Council calls for community members to get involved with the education of African American students in the K-12 schools. People can go to www.schoolcommmunityconnection.org to email or post comments. The Council can also be reach by mail at PO Box 55431, Madison, WI 53705.