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August 1, 2012
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August 1, 2012The Thibodaux Police Department is hosting its Bicycle Safety Rodeo from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 7, at Walmart in Thibodaux.
“This will be our first Bicycle Safety Rodeo and we would like to do them more often throughout the year,” said department public relations officer Det. David Melancon. “We had 20 to 25 children registered for the first event, which was cancelled because of the weather, and more were expected to come by word of mouth. We’re looking for a large crowd.”
The event will feature free food, drinks and a bounce house. A limited number of bicycle helmets will be given out. Children up to age 12 are invited to attend.
“We encourage children to participate, and parents are welcome to take part, too,” Melancon said. “We’d love to have the parents participate.”
Members of the department’s bike patrol will be on hand to go over bike safety and maintenance and assist children through a biking obstacle course.
“It will be a good experience for the kids,” said bike patrol officer Private First Class Joey Gustafson. “We will talk to them about safety issues and maintenance, show them our bikes and teach them safer ways to ride in a fun and controlled environment.”
Gustafson has been with the department’s bicycle force for more than two years, starting as a reservist in 2010 and before going full-time last October.
“Being a bike patrol officer is a great way to get out of the bubble of the patrol car and interact with public,” Gustafson said. “You can ride up beside people in their cars, smile and wave. You get to know the public better.”
Gustafson will be one of several bike officers at the bicycle rodeo.
“One of the top things we hope to stress at the event is wearing a helmet,” Gustafson said. “We want to make helmets cool and get kids to wear them.”
According to Melancon, this time of the year is heaviest for bike traffic in Thibodaux.
“There is lots of bike traffic in Thibodaux, from both teens and children, especially during the summer,” Melancon said. “They are mostly riding in neighborhoods, but some also ride along Canal Boulevard, too.”
Like Melancon, Gustafson also hopes parents attend the event.
Children must bring bicycles and a helmet to the event and an adult must accompany them. The event is limited to 60 children. To pre-register, contact Cpl. Lance Percle of the Thibodaux Police Department Bike Patrol at (985) 446-5021 or email lancep@ci.thibodaux.la.us.
