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i Press Release May 29, 1 97 FOR IMM DIATE RELEASE FOR MO E fNFORMATION CONTACT: Jim Wilcox Bicycle Ch Menge '97 Mailing A ress: 1574 Cob Road, Suite 237 Eugene, O 97001 541.554-7 1 54 i -686-0 76 Businesses Meet the Challenge Over 30 a a businesses have joined forces to save the Bicycle Challenge, scheduled for Monday J ne 2, through Saturday June 7. Thousands of area cyclists will take to the streets in support of he most efficient form of transportation -the bicycle. The origin 1 Business Bicycle Challenge, part of Blke Commute week, was nearly canceled after City of Eu ene was forced to discontinue funding the event. However businesses and organizati ns stepped in to provide funding, saving the Bicycle Challenge. 'The City f Eugene and other local agencies developed the Business Bicycle Challenge in ' , 1994 to pr mote bicycle commuting as a practical and effective alternative mode of transportation that reaNy orks in this area. This year, especially with the fiscal constraints facing local governme ts, we're glad the 'Challenge' has found a broader base of support in the business communit says Eric Jones, Public Information Coordinator, City of Eugene Public Works. Major sup rt for Bicycle Challenge'97 came from many area businesses, among them Burley Design Co perative, one of the most successful manufacturers of trailers and tandems in the United Sta es. Commenting on the benefits of the event, General Manger Bruce Creps noted that cycling elps break down the stereotype that bikes are only for kids; bikes are fun, practical means of ansportation used by adults worldwide [that] show people areal-world alternative to the noise, ongestion, and pollution of other transportation modes." PeaceHea h also joined forces as a ma or sponsor, in return distributing over 400 Bicycle Commuter Discount Cards to their employees who cycle. Noting the health benefits of cycling, CEO Curt Roberts said that "Cycling is something you can do that's good for your health and ' good fort environment; you can't beat it. That's why we encourage employees to bicycle to ' work, and upport them by providing secure bike parking." This year Bicycle Challenge offered cyclists Commuter Discount Cards, good for discounts at participati bike shops and other area businesses. In addition to the discounts, the commuter cards are cod for admission to a party at the the Wild Duck Music Hall, Friday, June 6th from 4:30 to 7 m. The party wil! allow area cyclists an opportunity to meet and share their mutual dedication o cycling. The Bicycl Challenge culminates with the Human Powered Parade, Saturday June 7. The Human P ered Parade assembles at 9:30 pm at the Farmer's Union at 5th and Olive. The parade be ins at 10:30 and winds around the city center, ending in more festivities at where it began. All orms of human powered locomotion can be seen at this event, which is free to the public. (end)