As the national economy weakens and unemployment rates continue to rise, some Bronx residents are picking up side jobs to weather the storm.

In the South Bronx, some have taken on part-time jobs as bike messengers. Fernando Rivera, owner of Cyclehawk Messengers, says he's had a broad array of people come into his business looking for a side job.

"Everything from computer techs to college professors," Rivera says.

Prospective bike messengers are reminded they'll need warm gear, a waterproof jacket, boots, a lock - and a few hundred dollars for a bike if they don't yet own one.