Summit Follow-up: Indiana Advocates Host Congress Member at Ride Event

The 2013 National Bike Summit ended more than a month ago, but local advocates have taken the discussion home — and they’re seeing results.

During Lobby Day, advocates urged their elected officials on Capitol Hill to visit one of their district’s bike projects. These ‘Show Me’ events work to showcase for elected leaders what bicycling means to their home district constituents. We’re excited to see advocates following up on these requests and getting their elected officials on bikes! Earlier this month, advocates in Georgia got their local lawmaker’s staff on a bicycle, and they also helped secure a city resolution declaring the need for better bicycle infrastructure.

And this past weekend, we were delighted to hear that advocates in Indiana hosted Rep. Larry Bucshon (R) at a 10K bike ride and benefit. Darlene Wefel, of the Evansville Bicycle Club, invited Bucshon, who is a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, to Saturday’s Evansville Rockin’ River City Ride.

Wefel and Bucshon pose at the Rockin’ River City Ride in Evansville, Indiana

There were 605 riders, with routes ranging from a 5K family ride to a 100K ride, and the event raised money for the Junior League of Evansville and the Evansville Morning Rotary Club.

“The morning was very cold for the time of year with temperatures starting in the mid-30,” says Wefel. “Mayor [Lloyd] Winnecke introduced Congressman Larry Bucshon who spoke about health and being active and how important it is to the youth of our city, state, and country — that cycling and walking are great ways to keep active and healthy. He officially started the ride with an air horn. Congressman Bucshon was joined by his wife and their children to ride the family 10K route.”

Rep. Bucshon speaks at the event on Saturday.

Congratulations to Wefel and the other advocates in Indiana for their work on this event and ongoing efforts! In fact, as Bike Month nears, it’s perfect timing for you to encourage your elected officials to events in your communities! Learn more about Bike Month here.