On October 14, join State Senator Dale Fowler (R-Harrisburg) and various Johnson County officials to enjoy a day of cycling, the official state exercise of Illinois. Pedal-Pa-Looza, a family-friendly event at the Vienna City Park, is geared toward younger children who may want to learn more about bike safety.
“Every kid loves riding their bike, but not every kid has learned basic bike safety. Pedal-Pa-Looza is a great opportunity to spend some quality time with your family, and learn a little along the way,” said Fowler, whose legislation to designate cycling the official state exercise of Illinois was recently signed into law.
Representatives from local bicycling groups will be on hand. Helmets are required to participate, but no rider will be turned away for being without a helmet. We would politely ask that anyone without a helmet reach out to Fowler’s office, as a limited number of helmets will be available. Helmets will be sent home with participating children. Participants are also asked to please bring a bike in good working order.
“This event also gives us a great opportunity to showcase the Tunnel Hill Bike Trail, which was created on what used to be a rail line bringing passengers in Pullman cars south,” said Fowler, noting, “The 55 mile trail extends from Eldorado to Vienna and ends just outside of Karnak. It’s a great way to enjoy one of the most scenic routes in southern Illinois.”
Pedal-Pa-Looza will take place at the Vienna City Park (Illinois Route 146, East) from 10 a.m. until 1 pm. Free food, soft drinks and balloons will be provided. Additionally, there will be a chance for participating youth to win one of several bicycles that have been donated. A special appearance will be made by Sheriff Woody from “Toy Story.”
Event sponsors include the City of Vienna, the Johnson County Board, Vienna City Park, Phoenix Cycling, Wiggs Bicycles in Benton, Vienna Masonic Lodge, Vienna Elks Club, Vienna Modern Woodsman, Vienna VFW, Sheriff Woody, and local residents Phillip Fritts, Mike Scott, and Phillip Morris.
A copy of the flier, and more information can be found at www.senatorfowler.com. If you have any questions, please contact Fowler’s Harrisburg office at (618) 294-8951 and also encourage participants to call our office to reserve a helmet.