In order to continue serving residents for whom biking is increasingly becoming a preferred mode of transportation and to provide activities to contribute to the health of our children, Alderman George Cardenas announced the creation of the 12th Ward Bike Club. “This bike club will help ensure that our children are getting enough exercise, and at the same time provide them with positive activities,” said Ald. Cardenas. “We have a duty to our children to provide opportunities to stay healthy.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention rated the state of Illinois at a 26.5 percent obesity rate with Hispanics having a 21 percent obesity prevalence compared to other ethnicities. With obesity as one of the biggest health risks for children in the United States biking has been recommended as a low impact exercise.

The bike club will be administered by the General Wood Boys and Girls Club of Little Village. The club began taking names of the bike winners and anyone interested in the joining at last week’s bike the boulevard. The club will be open for children four years of age and older however children under ten must be accompanied by a parent to participate in biking activities. The bike club will be administered by the General Wood Boys and Girls Club of Little Village. Registration is still open, 12th Ward residents can contact the 12th Ward Public Service Office at 773-523-8250 or the General Wood Boys and Girls Club at 773-247-0700.