Latest news with #NationalBicycleMonth
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Locals celebrate improved infrastructure this National Bicycle Month
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) – Over the years, the cycling community has grown in the Panhandle. May is National Bicycle Month, and local bike shop owners are celebrating improved infrastructure in our area. 'You know, back in the 80s, our bike path was a white line on the side of the road. And we actually have some bike paths now up 77 and on Highway 20,' Steve's Bike Shop Owner Steve Burdeshaw said. Steve's bike shop has been a staple in Panama City for 46 years, and so has Steve. The shop continues to meet all of the community's biking needs, which sometimes means changing with the times. Multi-agency effort assist in structure fire in DeFuniak Springs The growing popularity of e-bikes allows for the inclusion of individuals with joint issues, and lets the elderly community participate as well. 'I think that is expanding now with the, with electric bikes and the pedal assist bikes that community is expanding because guys that are getting older who need a little help, they get the pedal assist and they're able to continue riding and continue doing their mountain trails and stuff because they get that little extra help,' Burdeshaw said. Improved infrastructure plays a similar role, literally opening up paths that promote safe cycling for all. Rails to Trails is the prime example of how cycling in this community has become more accessible in recent years. The availability of parking allows those who don't reside in cycling-friendly neighborhoods to easily partake in the activity. And the paved trails make it easy for all levels to enjoy a bike ride. 'The Rails to Trails, the only danger there is making sure you cross safely when you get to the crossroads. So that's nice, and they're doing more of those,' Burdeshaw said. Burdeshaw says Panama City moving forward with the Beach Drive Project would be a big win for the biking community. 'Of course, if they do the Beach Drive Project, that's going to be really nice for casual cyclists that want to travel back and forth from downtown the Cove to the St. Andrews area,' Burdeshaw added. Currently, signage on Beach Drive tells drivers they must share the road with cyclists. Burdeshaw says as long as phones exist, there's a risk for cyclists on that road. Tyndall Air Force Base schedules three-day burn to reduce wildfire risk 'I would not ride my bike on that road. No. Because somebody will be looking at their phone and run over you. That is the main fear, yes. I mean, people are running into each other, looking at their cell phone. So you're on a bike, yeah, you got no protection. And so the off-road bike paths, that's what we need because people are not going to quit looking at their cell phone,' Burdeshaw continued. Burdeshaw also recommends Gayle's Trails in Panama City Beach for cyclists wanting to take a safe ride. Remember to stay off your phones and be aware of cyclists this National Bicycle Month, and every month. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Community rallies for veterans with heartfelt luncheon
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) – Veterans and active-duty members were welcomed with open arms at American Legion Post 392 for an afternoon of celebration and gratitude. Hosted by the Women's Council of Realtors' Central Panhandle, the luncheon honored dozens of military service members with food, music, games and words from military personnel speakers. 'We find it necessary to remember the sacrifice and the services that people have rendered in rendering ours with their life. We know that they are receiving compensation, but it still requires sacrifice. And we're delighted to once again take time out of our very busy schedules as realtors to say thank you, thank you for your service, thank you for your time, and thank you for your life,' Women's Council of Realtors Central Panhandle President Patrice Johnson said. Prepare for the upcoming storm season at Hurricane Preparedness Seminar Serving in the military often means being away from loved ones during birthdays, holidays, and even for years. It's a sacrifice by service members and their families 'It is tough when you deploy for six months and are in, you know, situations that are very different and dangerous, having the support from home is just absolutely wonderful. And you could see that just every time they had a chance to talk to them while they are overseas, it brightens them up. And when they got back home, you know, you could just see the relief,' Navy veteran Lyle McDaniels said. Locals celebrate improved infrastructure this National Bicycle Month McDaniels said events like these not only showcase the community's appreciation, it also is a way to make friends with fellow veterans and active service members in the area. 'Next thing you know, we're chatting up you know, and when you walk into some place like this, you can easily meet and make friends and talk about, you know, whether it's life experiences in the U.S., or experiences from your past in the service,' McDaniels added. Military Appreciation Month runs through the end of May. If you see a veteran, take a moment to thank them for their service. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
