Bikes to be fixed-up for April Earth Day giveaway

RONAN - Ronan Tribal Fitness is accepting donated bicycles to fix up in anticipation of a bike giveaway during its second annual Earth Day Event on April 24.

The event starts at 11 a.m. and includes a bike ride on the bike path from Ronan to Polson.

"This event provides a family-centered day that promotes healthy lifestyle behavior, positive family interactions and acknowledges the principles of Earth Day," Ronan parks and recreation director Jennifer Rolfsness said.

Last year, 250 people including cyclists, runners and walkers participated. Free lunch was served at the Joe McDonald Activity Center. Recycling stations and trash cans were set up along the path to emphasis Earth Day principals.

Twelve bikes were repaired and given away last year. Some were in great shape from the beginning, while others needed new chains, seats and brakes. Bikes were also repaired onsite before the event for any participants that needed a quick tune up. Tribal Health gave away 200 free bike helmets to riders.

Basic bicycle repairs will be given this year in the parking lot of Joe McDonald Activity Center the morning of the event.

For the second year in a row, a bike rodeo and a class on bike safety will be conducted by Tribal Health Educator Margene Asay.

This year's slogan is "Healthy Earth, Healthy Me."