IPSD to Hold Annual Bicycle Safety Program Saturday - Donations Welcome!

IRONWOOD, MI - Wednesday, May 28, 2008 - Ironwood Public Safety Officer Matthew Sterbenz informed the Chronicle that their 2008 Bicycle Safety Program would be held this Saturday, May 31, 2008, at the Ironwood Public Safety Department Building at 123 West McLeod Avenue, between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM.

The program helps insure the safety of area youth by educating them on bicycle safety procedures and bicycle laws. The program also registers bicycles; gives away safety equipment; gives away new and restored bicycles; offers snacks; and provides tours of the Ironwood Public Safety Department and Equipment.

The program is entirely supported by the community and volunteers. Public Safety officers volunteer their time to educate the youth and register bicycles. American Legion volunteers provide food and snacks for all participants. The Hobby Wheel provides free bicycle tune-ups.

"We are asking for any type of donations to the program," Sterbenz noted, "However, monetary donations are preferred. The money is used to purchase bicycle helmets that are given away during the program. The monetary donations are also used to update training materials and safety information provided at the program." The program has continually grown since it first began, and community support will help ensure its continued success.

Donations can be directed to: Ironwood Professional Police Association, 123 West McLeod Avenue, Ironwood, Michigan  49938. Or phone, Officer Matthew Sterbenz at (906) 932-1234 extension 22.

"We would also like to add another special thanks to those who help keep this program going." Sterbenz stated, "Last year we gave away twenty-four bikes that were donated or bought with monetary donations. We also gave away free helmets, coloring books, and other literature to every child who participated with the program, which we will do this year also. We welcome any support anyone is willing to offer."

According to Officer Sterbenz, pictures of previous Bicycle Safety Programs can be viewed at www.webpages.charter.net/ipsd.

Jim Albert