Helmets, stunts, giveaways a draw at Vista's bike rodeo

Waukegan, IL, June 6, 2011 — Some 200 Lake County kids and parents participated in Vista Health System's annual Bike Rodeo held Sunday at the Vista Surgery Center and new Freestanding Emergency Center at 1050 Red Oak Lane, Lindenhurst. The appeal of free bike helmets, a bike obstacle course, a high flying BMX stunt show, along with raffles for free bikes and scooters proved to be more than enough to draw enthusiastic families to the event.

The Bike Rodeo also gave local residents a chance to tour Vista's growing medical facility in Lindenhurst. The new Vista Freestanding Emergency Center is completed and awaiting final state approval to begin accepting patients. Parents and kids also toured several departments in the adjacent two-story Vista Surgery Center.

“We're excited to bring this event each year to our neighbors in Lindenhurst and the surrounding communities,” said Barbara Martin, President & CEO of Vista Health System. “Bike safety is an important issue for kids and adults alike, so this is a great way to promote the fun aspects of cycling along with the need to do it safely.”

Vista donated some 75 free bike helmets to kids and fitted each one individually. B&G Cyclery, 131 East Rollins Road in Round Lake Beach, created the bike obstacle course and provided free bike safety checks. The Lindenhurst Police Department and its Junior Explorers program also provided support for the event.