People of the Year—Walt Biller & Mara Wasilik

Patch recognizes people or groups with a People of the Year award for their contributions to Havre de Grace in 2011. Nominees were submitted by Patch readers via , email or on Facebook.

WALT BILLER & MARA WASILIK

isn't just a bike shop.

This time of year, it's a . On Friday nights throughout the year, it doubles as a . On Thursdays, it's the only . have visited.

And for those who know and Mara Wasilik, they know the owners behind the shop aren't just local business owners. They're community leaders.

"Though I know they don't make much on it, keeping the bike shop open as a in the winter means there's a lot of activity on an important corner, making Havre de Grace even livelier," fellow business owner said.

Becky's husband, , noted how often uses its own Facebook page to promote other businesses in town.

"They are constantly helping folks out, especially kids, if they can't afford repair services for their bikes or other needs," Carroll Fitzgerald said. "I am constantly hearing about folks that the Billers have helped out."

In a city that prides itself on its arts and entertainment district, Biller's Bikes has become the center of activity.

Located at the corner of Franklin and St. John streets, the shop is central to many of the most popular bars, restaurants and shops in the downtown area. It has a wide selection of bikes and gear, and a free pump for those who need to inflate a tire while riding through town.

And walk in the shop any given day, you'll find Walt Biller behind the counter with a tool in hand, cranking away on some joint or part on a bike.

"My own parents were talking to a store in Cockeysville about a repair to their stationary exercise bike, and the proprietor told them the only fellow he knew to refer them to was in Havre de Grace. Dad called to ask if I knew someone named Walt Biller," Fitzgerald said.

Biller has also been vocal in his support of connecting local biking trails, and in hopes of connecting Harford and Cecil counties with a pedestrian and bike crossing over the Susquehanna River.

They also live in town—in fact, they're right above the shop.

While most bike shops are focused on repairs and sales, the folks behind are constantly looking out their windows, wondering how they can make the community around them better.

Or, as Becky Fitzgerald says, "If we had more Billers, we'd have less problems!"

Do you know Walt & Mara or have a story to share about their impact on Havre de Grace? Share it in the comments. Click below to add an image or video.